Before I became a mum I had a lot of ideals about the way I was going to parent. I was determined that none of my children were going to be given a dummy no matter how much they cried - all of my children had a dummy at some point during their first year. I was sure that we would never use pudding as a bribe for eating tea - I think we use this bribe on at least one of our kids every day. And I was positive that my children would be well behaved and not tantrum throwers - mmmmm.
Since having children I have realised that a lot of parenting is about surviving every day as it comes and trying to enjoy my kids in the process. It isn't easy, but it is a blessing and we are doing the best we can to teach them and train them and to help them learn about the Father's heart.
I recently had a conversation with one of Beth's playgroup workers where I casually asked how she was doing. Their answer was that Beth was fine but that there had been one incident where Beth had told another girl she couldn't play with her. I felt so disappointed, this not normally being what Bethy is like, but she had also been giving me attitude at home so in some ways it didn't surprise me. I was really challenged by God on the way home not to put standards of perfection on my children - after all they are still sinners and no amount of training and teaching by me will change that fact. It was freeing to know that Beth's behaviour isn't wholly my responsibility and I felt God was prompting me to pray for the holy spirit to work in Beth's heart - this will be much more effective!!
I think we expect so much of our kids and fret about their behaviour and how it makes us look as parents. Our greatest concern should be what is in their heart. Do they know they are loved by the King of the universe? And not just loved, but bought at the most costly price. As this truth seeps into their hearts their behaviour will right itself. And so this is what I pray for.
