Welcome back to the kitchen table. Parenting is more than a job—it’s a calling. God has entrusted you with a flock, not to control or push, but to guide with love and purpose. 1 Peter 5:2-4 paints a beautiful picture of this calling, reminding us that leadership is about walking with those we’re guiding, not barking at them from behind.

A shepherd leads their flock from the front. However, a sheepdog—pushing from behind. One leads with peace; the other forces movement with pressure.

I’ve found myself acting like a sheepdog more often than I’d like—rushing my children, pushing them to move forward, and using frustration to motivate. But that’s not how God parents us. He walks among us, leading with grace, never domineering or demanding. And he calls us to lead our children the same way.

The moment parenting becomes a shame-filled game, I’ve stepped out of the shepherd’s role. Instead, I’m choosing to slow down, to lead with calmness and connection, and to trust that God’s guidance is enough for both me and my kids.

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