Gaining Honor

Dear God,

So sorry for being a nagger...  I really don't want to be like this, but  I forget and begin to be one when the kids take long in obeying or doing things I've told them to do.

I remember a Kids Pastor say that after you've told someone three times, it's no longer telling, but nagging.  But what about, say, (more than) the nth time?!?  I'm afraid I might be guilty of this, and I think I am not teaching my kids respect for me anymore.

I think if I respect their ability to do whatever I asked of them, I can perhaps stop repeating myself....  Then if they don't do as I have asked, they should face the consequences.  That way, I guess I will be more likely to retain honor and they will learn to respect themselves and me too.  Please help me in achieving this, Father...

A kindhearted woman gains honor,
but ruthless men gain only wealth.

Proverbs 11:16

Remind Me To Be Humble

Dear God,

Every time I try to be humble, my pride gets in the way.  I begin to think more highly of myself than I should.  And it's even harder to become humble about my children!  I love them very much that I want to brag about them all the time.

Lord, I need to encourage my DS and DD but not to be boastful, so I won't lead them to be prideful.  Finding the middle ground is difficult, but I know You will be faithful and steadfast to remind me when I get off the course.  (And I need that reminder all the time!)

I have to thank You, Lord,  for the times that I am reminded and humbled.  Because You are always there to listen, forgive, and most of all, to restore and heal.  Please help me to have a repentant heart, and to be willing to be brought down on my knees.  Please heal me, Lord.

...if my people, who are called by my name,

will humble themselves and pray

and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways,

then I will hear from heaven,

and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14

Praiseworthy Thoughts

Dear God,

There is an image of motherhood that is somewhat idealistic but not exactly realistic ---  That very image shows me a perfect lady, always smiling and cheerful, helpful, and never speaks harshly, so full of wisdom, patience, and grace.  I think it sounds too wonderful, and at the same time, too good to be true.  Thing is, I know You want moms like me to have those character traits.  But I also guess moms like me would likely be that kind of mom if we only concentrated on pure thoughts.

I am aware that most of the time I get to focus on negative, ugly thoughts...  And sometimes still, my thoughts are clouded by impatience, envy, anger, or even resentment!  I know this is all wrong.  So please Father, help me focus on You alone.  Fill my heart and mind with pure, loving thoughts.  Amen.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true,

whatever is noble, whatever is right,

whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,

whatever is admirable —

if anything is excellent or praiseworthy —

think about such things.

Philippians 4:8