There are so many things I do wrong as a parent. I'm honestly amazed my kids are able to function sometimes--not because of their abilities, but because I've messed up so much. It often seems like such a daunting task to prepare our kids for adulthood and to give them tools to be contributing, working adults that will have a positive influence on society and the world at large.
Ultimately, my children will be responsible for themselves. After all, I did not give birth to two little robots that I control. I'd even go so far as to say they are responsible for themselves now, but they do still fall under the protection and care of my husband's and my household. It's a tricky balance. We've all seen the kids with parents that love and care for them and for whatever reason decide to make poor choices. It's difficult to watch. Sometimes they need help. Sometimes we need to not help. Sometimes it's hard to know which.
A friend of mine that I've known for a really long time is struggling with one of her kids. I don't know all the details, and I'm not at liberty to share even if I did. I honestly think the child is just really smart and maybe is unsure of how to deal with it. I don't know, and I couldn't possibly offer a perfect solution. It was just a good reminder that we all struggle. But as I sat in a parenting class this morning, one of the speakers reminded me that this battle is NOT between me and my kids. This battle is between my family and the world. The Bible tells us that we battle not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers and principalities of this dark world. The spiritual battle is real, friends. Satan is gunning for the very souls of our children, and he is sneaky and conniving and twisted.
The good news is that I don't have to be perfect--that doesn't mean I don't have to try--because His power is made perfect in my weakness. God will fill in the blanks with my kids, but they need to know Him. I need to know and trust him, and ask forgiveness from Him and my children when I mess up. I'm so thankful I can do that.
What are you a failure at? How have you seen God's grace fill in the blanks?
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