“for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:4-5, NASB
I’m afraid. Not of what you might expect–rather, I’m afraid of speaking correction to one of my children. Difficulties arise from time to time in family life, and I’m beginning to recognize my tremendous hesitation to speak out. I’m afraid it will make matters worse. Plus, it’s easier to just take it and let it pass. Or is it?
Yesterday was filled with challenges, two of which surpass all. First thing in the morning, my husband was contacted by our eldest son: a shooting had occurred in the dorm lobby of his good friend.* Details were limited and nerves were extremely rattled. Throughout the day, I prayed and sought to support our son. He needed to process events and receive comfort, strength, and assurance. Truly I desired to supply all I could by listening, praying, and pointing him to Scripture–specifically Psalm 91:11. Next came a strong difference of opinion with another child, which led to much upset. Wanting to respond properly, I endured and mostly maintained my composure. Yet eventually I retreated outside and dissolved in tears. Both of these experiences demanded intense attention and added pressure to an already full schedule.
Life’s pressures overwhelm at times. Just when it seems we can’t handle anymore, something else descends heavily. Wonderfully God had given me a Bible verse hours earlier: “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed” (2 Cor. 9:8). Grace–whew! I needed it! Abundant, overflowing, precious grace.
Thankfully my child apologized. That doesn’t mean, however, we see eye to eye on everything our situation entailed. Which is where my fear comes in. Wholeheartedly I long for God’s best for my child, but I frequently feel so timid or inept when it comes to speaking correction. Instead of prayerfully trusting God for the outcome and moving forward responsibly, I’m cringing and avoiding conflict.
Motherhood takes courage. In a world where many positions are rightfully honored and valued, sometimes motherhood gets left behind. Sometimes Christian mothers aren’t appreciated for their repeated march into battle for their children. Certainly I don’t see myself as an amazing mother–probably a good thing. Perhaps, though, if I start looking at myself as God’s instrument in the lives of my children, courage will swell within and flow out with positive force.
While often I’m blind to it, God continually equips me as a mom. Though my faults abound, His grace abounds all the more. I will lean on Him to provide exactly what I need in this particular circumstance. He will not fail.
Motherhood takes courage … and God will supply.
Righteous Father, we come to You in need of courage. Please enable us to speak and guide our children in Your everlasting truth. Please open our lips to tell of Your perfect ways. Please grant us confidence regarding the Christian influence You’ve called us to impart to our children. We are Yours, Father, and we trust You to work out Your will in every situation as we step out in faith. In Jesus’ victorious name, Amen.
*Please pray for the Hathaway family, who lost their son, Joshua, in this tragic event.
Dear Emily,
I am sorry I did not see this blog until now. I am sorry it has taken me this long to read it. Motherhood brings on many challenges, both happy and stressful. I am sorry you have had such a hard time. I have had some similar situations with my own son as you did with the one at home. My heart goes out to you because I have been there too. I am thankful that God has given you some comforting words you can lean on. Emily, I lovingly, and respectfully, want to say this to you. I am glad your son apologized to you, but I encourage you to really speak to your son and let him know exactly what he said made you feel and why. He is getting to an age where he has to understand that kind of communication has consequences. You deserve to be respected! He deserves to be heard.-as long as it can be respectful. God can use this for the greater good. You can do this!!! You are a sweet, articulate Godly woman. This will enhance your relationship. I hope you can forgive me if I have spoken out of turn. I have tried to explain what was in my heart. I will pray for you and your sons. Thank you for your willingness to read our replies! Love you, Melissa
Dear Melissa,
Thank you so much for your well written comment that included genuine love and concern. I truly appreciate you! And many thanks for your prayers.
In Christ’s Love,
Emily
We do live in scary & tragic times. May we “Take courage” each & every day in the One who is able to protect. I visited from Wed. Prayer Girls this morning. Praying for the Hathaway family. Have a blessed Thanksgiving.
Blessings,
Joanne
Dear Joanne,
Thank you so much for visiting and sharing your encouragement! Ps. 46:1 comes to mind, “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.” Thank you for lifting up the Hathaways in prayer. I know this will help them through an extremely difficult time.
Thanksgiving joys to you!
In Christ’s Love,
Emily
Sounds like we had a similar day. I am thankful for God’s grace! Thank you for your boldness to share your life so that we all can glean encouragement!
Oh Andrea, Yes ~ God’s grace is immeasurably valuable! Sorry to hear you had a challenging day, but thankful God used my story to encourage you. He is so good.
In Christ’s Love,
Emily
I hear your heart, Em.
When my kids were babies and my life was chaos, my husband’s grandma told me, “When your kids are little, they might drive you crazy, but when their grown, they’ll rip your heart out.” I was horrified, but the wisdom of her words has proven to be true.
Motherhood lasts for a lifetime and demands a lifetime of selfless love and courage! Praise God! His grace IS sufficient!
Dear Colleen,
Thank you so much for sharing. Oh, that quote is startling, but I have experienced it! I appreciate your insights and wisdom.
In Christ’s Love,
Emily
Emily-
I remember crying tears at days end wondering what I had done right that day. You are right – motherhood takes courage. It also takes perseverance. Gentleness towards both our children and ourselves is so important. His mercies are new every morning.
You’ve had some tough challenges as explained here. You are in my prayers.
Take heart beautiful Emily,
Mary Ann
Thank you so much, dear Mary Ann, for your loving wisdom and faithful prayers.
In Christ’s Love,
Emily