This week I heard a young professional mother say that her two little children bring her no joy. But don’t judge her. The year 2020 has brought so many unbelievably hard challenges. So much so that some of our fellow humans are barely hanging on to a semblance of sanity.
When trials are overwhelming and all the thoughts in our minds are depressingly negative, it helps to clarify our vision through God’s eyes.
When our Heavenly Father looks at our children, He sees something so very precious. Psalm 127:3–5 (ESV) — 3 BEHOLD, CHILDREN ARE A HERITAGE FROM THE LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. 5 Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! …
It also helps to consider those who are struggling to have children. I have a nephew and his wife who tried for many years to have children. Finally, after at least ten years the news came that she was expecting. She is now almost 28 weeks pregnant. Psalm 113:9 (ESV) — 9 He gives the barren woman a home, MAKING HER THE JOYOUS MOTHER of children. Praise the LORD!
I have also met parents who are overwhelmed. It is as if they are trying to carry twenty full buckets of water at the same time. They are constantly hindering their children from having access to God. Parents let your children SEE GOD IN YOUR HEARTS. And, when safe, RETURN TO WORSHIPPING IN PERSON. Summit tries to make it safe by enforcing social distancing, circulating the air over industrial sized UV filters, and sanitizing the building before every 11 AM Service. Luke 18:15–17 (ESV) — 15 Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus called them to him, saying, “LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME, AND DO NOT HINDER THEM, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 17 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”
And, finally, parents please do not punish your children by venting your frustration. Rather, out of a calm heart, discipline your children for their benefit. It is important not to shout and always be consistent. Don’t say “please pick up your toys”. Rather acknowledge the emotion you see in them and issue a command with two choices. For instance: “I see you are frustrated. Pack your toys away. You can start with the red or the blue. Which one are you going to pack away first? Proverbs 12:1 (ESV) 1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.
Our Father in Heaven, thank you for all the precious children in the world. Keep these tender hearts and minds safe as their parents navigate these tough times. In Jesus name we pray. And the church said …
