Preparing to Parent / Overcoming Anxiety
Today's Scripture
"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!" Isaiah 26:3 NIV
Thoughts for Today
The nine months of pregnancy are a time of preparation. The physical preparations like picking out names and furnishing a nursery might be exciting, but the most important preparation is emotional and spiritual. This is the time to consolidate your attitudes toward your pregnancy and toward child rearing.
Emotional preparation should include taking steps to reduce anxiety and tension in your life. These stressful emotions are communicated to your unborn infant. When a mother's stress hormones become elevated, the baby may become agitated.
Consider this …
In order to reduce your stress level, you may need to cut back on some present commitments. Take 30 to 60 minutes daily for yourself with no plans, no work. Just read, pray and rest. Listen to soothing music. Soft music has been shown to have a calming effect on both mother and baby.
Do you have fears concerning your pregnancy and childbirth? Discuss your concerns with a friend who has had a good experience in giving birth. Get educated by reading books and searching the Internet. Be sure to explore some of the excellent Christian books on the subject. Discuss any questions with your doctor.
Prayer
Father, I have felt anxious about all that is happening. Help me to use wisdom in my day-to-day activities. I do trust you. Help me to trust you more and to keep my mind fixed on you. And I thank you for the peace that you have promised. In Jesus' name ....
These thoughts were drawn from …
Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to [email protected].
