Fast Day 8: Kingdom Parenting

By Heather Renfroe

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children…” Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Parenting can be full of repetition. We repeat instructions, reminders, and sometimes ourselves, what feels like all day long. But while our kids may not remember every word we say, they notice how we live. (Luke 6:45)

Our children are learning what it looks like to walk with Jesus by watching us in everyday moments, how we speak when we’re frustrated, how we respond when plans don’t go the way we expected, how we treat others, and how we turn to Jesus in all things. They don’t just listen, they catch it. (1 Corinthians 11:1)

As we fast, we are reminded to rely on God’s strength rather than our own. The lessons we learn about patience, self-control, and trust in Him don’t just shape us, they shape our children too. They are watching how we depend on God, even in the ordinary moments of life.

We can teach our children God’s Word, but it also has to be living in us. God’s Word is meant to be on our hearts first, and when scripture shapes our hearts and minds, it naturally shapes our homes. We aren’t just called to hear God’s Word, we’re called to live it out and in front of our kids.(James 1:22)

Just as the Lord patiently teaches and guides us, He invites us to walk alongside our children the same way. Even the ordinary choices we make each day, like praying together, opening the Bible, and saying you’re sorry- can be powerful and life-shaping moments for our children. (Psalm 32:8)

Today, remember that your daily devotion matters. Your child is watching how you follow Jesus, and through you, they are learning how to walk with Him too.

Reflection - As you fast today, how is your child seeing your faith lived out? Is there one small, intentional way you can model dependence on God today?

Prayer - Lord, as I fast today, help me to live your word in the ordinary moments of parenting. Let this fast deepen my reliance on you so that patience, love, and grace flow from me into my children. Let my heart be full of Your truth, and let my children catch glimpses of You in how I live and respond. Thank You for walking with me as I grow, just as I walk with them. In Jesus’ name, amen.