5 Lies Parents Hear, Truths God Speaks

Melanie Zwyghuizen | Gen1 Parenting

Parenting is full of joy—but also full of lies we’re tempted to believe. Lies about our worth, our kids, and even about God. Left unchecked, these false beliefs can rob us of peace and purpose. The good news? God's Word cuts through the noise and reminds us of what's true.

Here are 5 common lies—and the truth that sets us free:

Lie #1: “I’m failing as a parent.”

Truth:

"The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love." (Psalm 103:8) God doesn’t expect perfection from us—He calls us to lead with love, patience, and humility.

You’ll find even more encouragement in The Perfectly Imperfect Family, a #1 international bestselling anthology of real parenting stories—including mine. In Chapter 34, I share how releasing the pressure to “get it right” every time actually helped me connect more deeply with my kids.

Lie #2: “It’s all up to me.”

Truth:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5) You’re not alone. Parenting is a partnership with the God who loves your children even more than you do.

Lie #3: “If my kids struggle, I must have done something wrong.”

Truth:

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) Our job isn’t to shield our children from every hardship—it’s to walk with them through it, pointing them to Jesus.

Lie #4: “I have to control my kids to keep them safe.”

Truth:

"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1:7) Fear leads to control. Love leads to freedom, growth, and trust.

Lie #5: “I’m not enough.”

Truth:

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9) You don’t have to be "enough" on your own. God's strength fills the gaps where we fall short.

Hey Parents,You were never meant to carry the weight of parenthood alone. When we trade the enemy’s lies for God's truth, we find freedom—not just for ourselves, but for our families too. You're doing holy work. If you want help and support building your parenting around a faith-centered, purposeful home, book a [free 15-minute consult] with me.

-Melanie