Growing As An Encourager

Dear God,

Whether I like it or not, I am an example to my DS and DD. But how many times have I failed to do what my quiet time verse for today commands? You know that I am not always patient, Lord... I don't take time to comfort or support those who need it most, and everytime, my kids are watching.

But every moment of my waking life, I want to improve. I want to tell my kids about the need to be there for others, to encourage in whatever way is needed. Your Word says I have to do this by example.

The little ways do count, Father. Please help me teach my DS and DD that to grow as encouragers, they can start with small things as they comfort others and build from there.

And we urge you, brothers and sisters,
warn those who are idle and disruptive,
encourage the disheartened, help the weak,
be patient with everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:14

The Fruit Of Righteousness

Dear God,

I cannot thank You enough for the promises and truths found in Your Word. I would not have believed it possible for myself to have such a change of heart. The day before yesterday was an ugly day for me at work. I was simply diappointed, devastated, angry at the whole world; even my DS and DD wouldn't want to stay close to me at home... But today, I am the sweetest, most loving parent any child would want.

I know that once again the sinful nature will rear its ugly head. My beautiful self will become tainted. I will be harsh, and affect other family members negatively again. I also know that my relationship with my kids will not be good when that happens. It will not be a joyful ride at home. It will hurt; however, Your promise will hold true once more. Thank You that Your Word is right every time, Lord. Each time life tests my boundaries, I can throw up the fence that You provide.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time,
but painful. Later on, however,
it produces a harvest of righteousness
and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Hebrews 12:11

Help Me See Them With Your Eyes

Dear God,

I did it again... Somehow, some people in the workplace said something to hurt my feelings. I acted polite, but then my hurt and anger boiled over. I can still see the wide-eyes of my DS and DD as they listened to my unkind words. How could I have actually "listed" down my gripes in front of them? Really now, I realize, I should have just spoken to You in private, Father...

Give me the wisdom to talk to my family about what I said. Perhaps that co-worker wasn't feeling well...? Maybe I misunderstood the intended meaning...? After all, how many times have I also allowed something to slip off my tongue without thinking...?

Lord, I want to be able to show my DS and DD the value of self-control and forgiveness. Please help me to see other people the way You see them.

Blessed are those you choose
and bring near to live in your courts!
We are filled with the good things of your house,
of your holy temple.
Psalm 65:4

Your Unfailing Love

Dear God,

Thank You for being so ever faithful. Thank You that each day Your love for me is always just the right amount to get me through the day. Some mornings I don't even want to open my eyes; I close them tight, hoping to squeeze out the fact that there is an undending number of tasks that await me.

I don't want to face the inevitable DS and DD fights that are just around the corner. For that matter, I don't want to think of the ordeal of trying to come up with a meal that both of them will actually eat.

When I face it from my perspective, I am overwhelmed, but when I remember that You are offering me Your compassion, I am renewed. I rejoice in Your faithfulness, Lord.

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

Wisdom From You

Dear God,

My DS and DD are not rich or wealthy. At least not by the world's standards... It's also not too likely that they ever will be as long as they're relying on us, their parents, for their income. I would not say that they are poor either, but, of course, these are not the things that should matter in this world... Listening to us and paying attention to wise counsel will definitely make both of them far better people than either wealth or poverty.

Lord, please give me the wisdom I need to properly advise my DS and DD. Please help me also teach and instill in their hearts and mind to always seek guidance from Your Word and in accordance with the Holy Spirit. DH and I may not be able to offer earthly riches, but we can always teach them Your truths, and that is what really counts. As our kids grow, Father, help them use wisdom from You.

Better a poor but wise youth
than an old but foolish king
who no longer knows how to heed a warning.
Ecclesiastes 4:13