There are days when I feel inadequate as a mother. Perhaps I think of all that I would do with my children if my personality were different or the skills I could teach them if I were more proficient in certain areas.
I was recently encouraged by the following words from Cary Schmidt’s book Passionate Parenting.
“It is no mistake that you are your child’s parent. You are truly God’s gift to your children. You were custom designed by God for their needs, their heart, and their development. You have been equipped in providential ways to be the parent that your kids need….God brought you together by His eternal design, and it’s just right.”
What a wonderful truth, to remember that God gave me the children I needed – and gave them the mother and father that they needed!
On those days when I wonder how to deal with a daughter who’s so much like me – or one who’s totally different – I can rest in the fact that God has made available to me His Word which has all the wisdom I need. Not only that, He’s also given me the physical, emotional, and mental abilities to provide just what will help our daughters grow into the Christian young ladies He desires.
On the other hand, dealing with their unique traits and temperaments works on those difficult spots in my character that need to be refined.
So, moms, on those difficult days, remember – God has given you everything required to be the best mother your kids could ever have!
Katie says
July 3, 2013 at 10:50 amWhat an amazing truth to cling to and to let resonate in my heart. Yea and Amen!
And I completely agree ~ when I am disciplining/discipling my own children ~ the Holy Spirit is faithful to point out to me areas in which I need discipline or discipleship training.
Our Creator is so very good ~ boggles the mind at how perfect His design & plan truly are.
Have a blessed 4th!
Katie
Janet says
July 3, 2013 at 3:11 pmI think learning that truth is so freeing to us as parents. It helps us to learn to let go of what we think we should do and follow God's leading. And I completely agree with God using our children to refine us. I've seen that evidence in my life time and time again. Thanks for the encouraging post.
Sues says
July 3, 2013 at 9:04 pmSo well-put!!!!
Nikki says
July 4, 2013 at 1:19 amYou have a daughter just like you, too? It makes things easier…and harder, doesn't it? I understand why she does what she does, and sometimes I can help her. And sometimes not.
Tracey says
July 4, 2013 at 2:41 pmYes – one just like me and one completely different!! There seem to be certain things that are harder/easier with each one. I guess I need both to help me become just what I need to be! I'm sure it would be interesting with even more than two children to see the mix of traits and personalities each one had.