Dustin and Mandy Woodward - August 31, 2025
Practices for Godly Parenting
Parenting is one of the greatest callings God entrusts to us — and also one of the most challenging. In Week 4 of our Home Sweet Home series, Pastor Dustin and Mandy Woodward teach on Godly Parenting, reminding us that raising children is not about perfection, but about faithfully stewarding the lives God has placed in our care. The Bible calls us to lead by example, embrace our responsibility, speak with intention, and trust God to do what we cannot. More than providing for our children, our ultimate responsibility is to point them to Jesus — in our actions, words, and everyday rhythms at home. Key Scriptures: Proverbs 22:6 | Jeremiah 1:4 | Deuteronomy 6:4–9 | Romans 12:2 | 1 Corinthians 15:33 | Proverbs 18:21 | James 5:16 In this message, you’ll discover: – Why you must lead yourself before you lead your kids – The role of teaching and correcting in shaping attitudes, actions, and associations – The importance of speaking words of life and identity over your children – How to release control and trust God’s plan for their future “Your words today become their inner voice tomorrow.” “You replicate who you are, not who you wish you were.” 31 Virtues to Pray Over Your Children: Salvation Grace Love Honesty Self-Control Love for God Justice Mercy Respect Self-Esteem Faithfulness Courage Purity Kindness Generosity Peace-Loving Joy Perseverance Humility Compassion Responsibility Contentment Faith Servant’s Heart Hope Willingness to Work Prayerfulness Self-Discipline Passion for God Heart for Missions Gratitude Closing Prayer/Declaration: “Lord, thank You for the gift of family. Strengthen us as parents. And let our children rise up secure in their identity, bold in their calling, and rooted in Your Word. Make our homes a place where Your presence dwells and Your name is honored. We declare our homes will be houses of faith and peace, and our parenting will reflect Your heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” This message is for every parent, grandparent, or guardian who wants to raise children anchored in Christ. Parents — which of the 31 virtues are you praying over your kids this week? Drop it in the comments!
From Series: "Home Sweet Home"
In this series, we’re diving into God’s design for the family — marriage, children, parenting, singleness — and how every season of life can flourish when Jesus is at the center of our home.
