Parenting is a journey of endless sacrifices, a road often walked in silence and pain. On a quiet night, while I lay in bed, struggling with intense pain radiating from my left leg, hip, and waist, a thought crossed my mind: I needed to prepare my child’s school uniform. The pain was a constant reminder of the unresolved medical issue for which surgery had been recommended, yet I hesitated, unsure it would provide a solution. Despite the excruciating discomfort, I resolved not to let my son go to school untidy.
When the electricity was restored at 11:50 p.m., I knew I couldn’t wait. The erratic power supply in our area had taught me never to postpone what could be done immediately. Crawling out of bed, I reached for the iron. Sitting was unbearable due to the pain, so I knelt on the floor and began ironing. As I did, I felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility, mingled with exhaustion and silent prayer.
It was in that moment of quiet struggle that a profound message resonated within me. A thought, or perhaps a voice, spoke deeply to my spirit:
“Do you see how difficult it is to be a responsible parent? Look at what you are enduring while your child sleeps peacefully. Yet, there are those who seek to rob parents of the joy of witnessing their children’s success. They plot to turn parents’ hard work into futility, leaving them absent on the days of their children’s glory.”
I paused, the words piercing my heart. I whispered in agreement, “Yes, I know.” And the voice continued, “By the authority God has given you, prophesy blessings upon parents who labour and curse the wicked who seek to disrupt their joy.”
So, in the stillness of that night, I prayed and prophesied—not just for myself but for every parent who bears the burden of love and responsibility:
A Blessing for Parents
“May the Lord reward your labour and sacrifice with joy. As the Scripture says in Psalm 126:5-6, ‘Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.’
“Your children’s days of glory and celebration will not meet you in the grave (Isaiah 65:22). You will not be confined to a sickbed when their success arrives. Instead, you will stand tall, proud, and healthy as they honor and celebrate you (Exodus 20:12). Your children will rise to greater heights (Deuteronomy 28:13), and they will cherish you, love you, and reward your sacrifices. Perfect health, long life, and overflowing joy will be your portion in Jesus’ name.”
A Warning to the Wicked
“To those who plot to sever the bond between parents and their children, hear this: ‘The Lord will repay the evildoer for his deeds’ (Proverbs 11:21). Your evil plans shall backfire (Psalm 7:15-16). The very weapons you wield against others will rise against you (Isaiah 54:17). You will live in regret and sorrow, with no one to show you compassion. God’s judgment will prevail over you, and you will fall by your own sword (Psalm 37:15).”
As I concluded the prayer, I felt a sense of peace wash over me—a reassurance that my sacrifices were seen, my pain was understood, and my efforts were not in vain.
A Call to Reflect and Bless
Parenthood is not merely a role; it is a calling, a divine assignment that demands strength, resilience, and faith. For every parent reading this, know that your sacrifices are not unnoticed. God sees your tears (Psalm 56:8), hears your prayers (1 Peter 3:12), and acknowledges your labour. Stand firm in faith, and speak blessings over your children. Trust that your struggles today will yield joy tomorrow (Jeremiah 29:11).
And to those who may harbor ill intentions toward families, remember this: the love and bond between a parent and child are sacred. Any attempt to disrupt this divine connection will only invite the wrath of justice, for God is a protector of the laboring and a judge of the wicked.
Let this be a reminder that while parenting may often feel like a lonely road, it is paved with purpose, love, and the promise of glory. Keep going, for your reward is nearer than you think (Galatians 6:9).
