Part 1 • Parenting by Paul David Tripp
My son is 15 months old. Most of our days are filled with teetering steps, giggles, toy-strewn floors, and a surprising number of snacks that he may or may not like that day. He’s learning new things daily, and so am I. It’s a sweet season—but it’s also exhausting and, at times, overwhelming. I am pretty sure this stage may be just as hectic as new-born stage.
I recently started reading Parenting by Paul David Tripp, and I wasn’t sure how much would apply at this stage. After all, I’m not yet dealing with attitude issues or deep heart conversations. But Chapter 1 made it clear: gospel parenting starts far earlier than I thought.
The very first principle is this:
“You’re not the owner of your child—you’re God’s ambassador.”
At first, I nodded along. I’ve said before, “He’s the Lord’s.” We even dedicated him to God at church. But as I read, I realized how subtly I already drift into an ownership mindset.
When he wakes early and interrupts my morning…
When he refuses to eat what I made…
When he won’t settle down for bed…
I often react as though my plans or peace are what matter most. I forget that this isn’t just my child—it’s God’s child, entrusted to me to care for, guide, and model Christ to… even now, even in this season.
“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” Psalm 127:3
Paul Tripp describes the difference this way:
- An owner says, “This is my child, and he needs to do what I want.”
- An ambassador says, “This is God’s child, and I’m here to reflect His love, truth, and patience.”
That’s a massive shift in mindset—especially when you’re cleaning up spilled milk at 6 a.m.
Here’s what I’m carrying with me this week:
- Even at 15 months, I’m teaching my son something about God.
My tone, my patience, my consistency—it all reflects something about the character of the God I represent.
- I don’t have to be perfect—but I do need to be faithful.
God hasn’t asked me to own the outcome, only to walk in obedience as I represent Him.
- Every moment is meaningful—even the ordinary ones.
Diaper changes, playtime, bedtime routines—they’re all part of the ministry God has given me as a parent.
Reading this first chapter didn’t give me a checklist—it gave me a lens. And it reminded me that the way I approach parenting now will lay the foundation for the years to come.
I’m not raising my son alone. And I’m not raising him for me.
I’m an ambassador for a God who is good, gracious, and present in every step of this journey.
