“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.” Psalm 127:3
Last Friday, I had a rough day. We had just returned from vacation and were trying to get back into the swing of things. My house was a mess, I was scrounging around for food before a trip into the nearest big town to buy lots of groceries and everyone was tired and GROUCHY! Because of this, my children and I were getting on each other’s nerves in a gigantic way and needless to say, the day was a disaster in the area of behavior and obedience.
Then I read a blog entry on a blog I follow from a woman who shared that she was having the same kind of day! She was good to remind herself (and me!) that all the time and effort we put into our children is worth it, especially when you see sweet moments of kindess shared between your kids. It is true that “children are a heritage from the Lord”! They are a reward from Him, not because we have earned His favor but because he loves us and desires us to teach them and love them so they can live for Him.
It can be SO difficult some days to be patient and consistent in my efforts to raise my children. Many days it seems like I’m taking one step forward and two steps back. In my personal devotions this morning I was reminded of priceless promises of God, promises that apply to my life, my children, my spouse, my situation and everything else.
“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” 1 Peter 1:3-4
I’m so glad that God does not abandon the work He has begun in us and our children. He is faithful to complete in them the spiritual, emotional and physical growth that He began when they were just tiny babies. Even though I’m sure many days will continue to be a struggle, I’m thankful for a faithful God who really wants to help me learn and grow along with my children.
*On a related note, my little guy, Will, is 5 years old today! I guess he isn’t so little anymore. He reminded me last night that I told him awhile back I wanted him to stay 4 forever :) What a blessing he has been in our lives and I can truly say life would be so boring without him!
WANT TO SPEAK WITH GRACE TO YOUR KIDS INSTEAD OF YELLING?
