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What I Learned About Parenthood from Tim Kimmel

Grace-based parenting shifts the focus from performance to purpose. When we lead with love, we disciple our children with identity, hope, and unwavering faith.

Becoming a father flipped my world upside down—in the best way possible. It’s hands down one of the most challenging, soul-stretching roles I’ve ever stepped into.

No one hands you a manual. There’s no perfect blueprint.

But after reading Grace-Based Parenting by Dr. Tim Kimmel, I started to see things more clearly. Not just what I’m up against, but who I’m called to be as a parent.

Parents are the true pastors of their children.

The most spiritually transformational moments won’t happen in a pew—they’ll happen around our dinner table, in car rides, during bedtime prayers.

That’s where the gospel becomes real.

Grace-based parenting isn’t about getting it all right—it’s about creating a home filled with love, purpose, and hope.

A home that mirrors the grace of God will experience the grace of God.

Legalism isn’t love. And parenting isn’t performance.

Kids don’t need a checklist—they need a compass.

Dr. Tim Kimmel reminds us that the goal isn’t behavior management. It’s a heart transformation.

So he invites us to set boundaries like Christ would—clear, firm, but full of space for redemption.

In other words, to stop parenting like a drill sergeant. Start leading like a shepherd.

Secure love is the anchor of identity.

If we want our children to know they matter, we don’t just need to tell them—we need to show up

Be fully present.
Give hugs that last.
Celebrate who they are, not just what they do.

Secure love builds emotional safety, which lays the groundwork for spiritual growth.

Because we are the anchor in our children’s identity. Our love is their compass.

And when we consistently show up—physically and emotionally—we teach our kids they’re valued, not for performance, but because they’re ours.

So show up. Speak life. Let’s let our love become their confidence.

Raise warriors, not performers. Purpose > Perfection.

The goal isn’t to script their lives. It’s to spark something deeper, with a sense of direction.

That sense that their life matters—to their family, their faith, and the world.

We should praise their kindness, their courage, and their willingness to serve, not just their grades or trophies.

Remember, we’re not raising resumes—we’re raising servants of God with vision and values.

Hope is the heartbeat of grace.

Our children will fall. Life will disappoint….

When our kids feel overwhelmed, when they mess up, when they face rejection, we should remind them they are never beyond grace.

That hope isn’t shielding them from storms. It’s teaching them how to hold the anchor.

Our voice can be their reminder: God’s not done with you yet.

So, we need to teach them that grace isn’t just a church word—it’s a lifeline.

We need to show them how to run to Christ when things get tough, because He’s already run toward them.

Ultimately, our job isn’t to shield them from hardship, but to equip them with faith in the storm.

Our home is our first mission field.

Parenting is discipleship.

Let your life preach louder than any sermon.

Let your consistency, your compassion, and your grace reflect the heart of Christ.

This isn’t about raising perfect kids—it’s about raising kids who know they’re deeply loved by God.

So, parent with purpose.
Lead with grace.
And build a home where faith isn’t just taught—it’s lived.

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