The other day my son Judah asked me if he could wash our minivan. When he asked me I felt a mix of emotions- I wanted to say yes, but I also wanted to say no.
I went to wash a few dishes while he waited for my answer. Me being me, I began weighing the pros and cons. As a perfectionist I thought to say no. Questions began popping into my head. Would he wash it well? What if he leaves streak marks? Etc.
Honestly, it didn't matter if my son didn't wash the car well. He is only seven and he's never washed a car before, but he's constantly learning.
But there I was presented with an opportunity of whether or not keep his flame burning or to blow it out, and keeping things in perspective; a car is just a car, but our relationship with our children is transcendent and MUCH MORE meaningful than a car or anything for that matter.
Personally I knew I would do him a disservice if I said no. How else are our children to grow and become responsible adults if we parents don't let them? How do we expect our children to mature if we don't present them with the opportunities?
I believe if our children are never exposed to risk and learning experiences, their development could be crippled-- physically, and intellectually.
I thought it was so wonderful of Judah to offer to help and the fact that he showed initiative filled this mama's heart with a realization -- I must be doing something right. To God be the glory!
Mamas, let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
Keep in mind we are raising the next generation that can change the world -- if we let them!
So going back to my anecdote, while I was thinking about what to tell my son I felt the nudge of the Holy Spirit:
"Let him do it"
I didn't want to listen, but I felt it again:
"Let him do it"
So I did. He got his first opportunity to wash the car and I got to cultivate his heart. My husband even got him some cleaning tools for the next time!
Mamas, let's create opportunities to cultivate our children's hearts. Let's model behaviors we want our children to adopt. We can be their main "influencers" in their lives when we're being led by the Lord!
Let's be a people who will apply Proverbs 22:6 in our children's lives so they're rooted in the Word and exemplify good principles learned at home. ("Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6)
As parents we get to shape and mold our children's character to the likeness of Jesus Christ. This world is eagerly waiting for the children of God to be revealed. Let's make our light shine, take every opportunity to love on your family and glorify the name of God.
Most importantly, let's keep going and don't give up.
Love, 💓
Esther
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