The birth of a child is an exciting time in the life of the new parents. Nine months of waiting and worrying culminate in the moment of birth and life is never the same again.

There are sleepless nights, joyful days and the excitement of all of those first accomplishments. New parents often seek out knowledge about the best of everything for their baby.

The new parents may ask friends and family members for advice or they may read many books about the “right” way to raise their child. Christian parents often turn to the Word of God for advice on raising their child.

In every park, you can find busy moms wearing headphones, listening to music and speed walking as they push their babies in strollers. The babies see only the path ahead and the moms see only the backs of the strollers.

Multitasking has become the American way of life. We talk on the phone as we gather at the table together, listen to music while having a conversation and sneak glances under the table at text messages in meetings.

Is it any wonder that many parents multitask while raising children? The Bible doesn’t say anything about multitasking while parenting. Mindful parenting means turning away from the activities that distract you while interacting with your child.

Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD; and the fruit of the womb is his reward. —Psalms 127:3, KJV

Looking to experts to raise children who are the heritage of the Lord may not be the best way for Christians to parent. Instead, trust in God to lead you in the ways to raise godly children, armed to live in an ungodly world.

The Bible is filled with advice about living good lives that has held true for generations. When you bring God into your marriage and your family life, Christ’s light shines to lead you along the way.

And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. —Romans 12:2, KJV

From your child’s first days, trust in the Lord to show you the way to parent with love, patience and kindness. Make time for God every day in your life. Teach your child to pray and to give thanks to God in all things.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.  Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. —Proverbs 3:5-7, KJV

Pray together as a family and take time to gather around the table together. Worship God by attending church and teach your child that God is at the center of your family through your actions.

Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it. —Proverbs 22:6, KJV 

As children grow, life often becomes a blur of various activities. School functions, swim team, baseball, soccer, dance recitals, piano lessons and other activities can take over your life if you let them.

Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. —Psalms 46:10, KJV

There’s nothing wrong with exposing your child to activities that will challenge and teach him new skills. But be careful to make sure that the activities and busyness don’t take over your life and pull your family away from God.

Don’t speed walk through family life. Children are a gift from God, to be treasured, loved, protected and raised to know and love Him.

Raising a godly child may be the most important job you ever have. Life is more than a destination. Take time to enjoy the journey.