Faith Focus: Parenting on THOSE days
Buckner parents are among the most prepared parents in the world. We make plans for our children. We pray over them. We read the latest books about raising them and even go through hours of classes about how to do it properly.
We’re ready.
Until we aren’t.
A son breaks a bone. A daughter cries after a tough day at school. Someone bullies your child. You lose your temper in front of your family. You back into the garage door. And that’s just Monday.
As a parent, there will be difficult days. Days when you’ll be at your wit’s end. Days when you’ll be disappointed in your own actions. Days when you won’t know what to do. They even happen after your children have moved out of your home.
In those moments – no matter how low you may feel – God’s there. Caring for you. Watching over your family.
May the words in Lamentations 3:22-23 wash over you during these times. Context is key for these verses. Lamentations was written at one of Israel’s lowest points. They had turned away from God. Jerusalem had been taken, the temple of God razed and the survivors scattered. Still, the writer is confident in God’s faithfulness and mercy.
“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
His mercies never come to an end;
They are new every morning;
Great is your faithfulness.”
So even on those days when it feels like everything is falling apart, carry on. God is with you and your children.
Deeper reflection:
• In the past week, how have you experienced God’s love and mercy?
• Caring for children is a precious task entrusted to us. How can you encourage other parents who may be struggling?
Next steps:
• Do something you enjoy with your children. It can be as simple as reading a book with them. Intentionally cherish the moments you have with them.
• November is National Adoption Month. Schedule a time with an adoptive parent where you can be a source of encouragement.
Part two (of two) in this devotional series will be released Nov. 9.
Add a Comment