We are not automatically equipped with the ability to parent when we have our first child. We probably don't learn how to be a really good parent until we become grandparents. Maybe that's why my mom says, "I wasn't a very good mother, but I am a great grandmother!"

Mom, you were a great mother as far as I am concerned, but I finally understand why you would say that. We certainly learn as we go along, don't we?

One thing about it, though. Our relationship with the Father God should improve after we become parents. That is because we begin to understand what He has been going through with us from the beginning.   

God is the most patient teacher, and I am sure it is His will for us to be the best parents on the earth. We need to learn to listen to His voice, follow His lead, and relax. Our children will be the better for it.

I have prayed more prayers for forgiveness as a parent than ever before in my life. I am positive I have asked my children to forgive me more for my mistakes in rearing them than any other human on the face of the earth!

Regularly I explain to Lil' Harry that Mommy is learning to be a good mommy just like he is learning to be a good son. This helps him to forgive me and also makes him realize that parents aren't perfect.

I think it's good for children to hear their parents ask God for forgiveness. Then they can understand that all people, even parents, make mistakes. But we have an advocate with our heavenly Father. God is waiting with open arms to forgive us and take us back on His lap for a little loving time (1 John 1:9). I thank God that we have a right to run to Him at all times.

You might want to pray this prayer with me now:

Father God, thank You for loving me when I wasn't very lovely. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins so I could be back in Your arms again. Thank You for trusting me enough to rear these precious children in the admonition of the Lord.

"Every day they are anointed in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (2 Tim. 2:19, Ex. 28:41, 29:7). I plead the blood of Jesus over them, under them, and all around them (Heb. 10:19, 1 Peter 1:2, 1 John 1:7). I ask You, Father, in Jesus' name, to appoint four angels around my children on every side to guard, guide, and protect them (Ps. 91:11-12; 34:7; Daniel 3:28, 6:22). I put a prayer cover over them and a wall of prayer around them (Ps. 91:4).

"All my children shall be taught of the Lord and great shall be their peace and undisturbed composure (Isa. 54:13). Thank You, Father, for putting Your hand on my children and calling them into Your service (Mark 16:17, Phil. 3:14).

"In the mighty Name of Jesus! Amen! Hallelujah!"

Every day I pray this prayer. I believe God that His Word is true. It is full of power. Not one word of His Word will return void (Isa. 54:11).

Source: A Royal Child by Cheryl Salem
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers