There is no doubt that the minute you view your child for the first time, the wave of adoration and fear that washes over you leaves you breathless for about 18 years.
However, we have to set aside our emotions at times and see situations for what they are. When one of our kids is having trouble- they are cranky, irresponsible, depressed… do we quickly react, demanding that they simply stop being cranky, disorganized, or depressed- or can we see this opportunity to connect and disciple our child?
Whether they are dealing with a physical problem, or they don’t know how best to organize their belongings (and maybe parents have not provided adequate storage?), or they’ve experienced a major change or loss and they don’t have the maturity or coping skills to endure it without help- every crisis, every phase, is a chance for us to guide our children to answers in Scripture, to teach them to be introspective and self-aware, and to create bonds of love and trust.
Consequently, as we go about our routines of school and chores, seize the learning opportunities that are presented to you every day and rejoice in the privilege of being the person who is there to comfort and guide your child, and to direct them to Christ who comforts and guides you.
