Raising toddlers and teenagers at the same time is not an easy task. Sometimes their characteristics are one in the same. Because of my previous situation due to the divorce from my first husband, I over compensated. I over protected, over helped, over gave, etc. trying to make up from the hurt. I was in survival mode and wasn’t sure how to function. I didn’t want them to suffer from my struggle. I kept them far from my hurt. Getting remarried and becoming a blended family hasn’t always been easy, but I thank God for His grace, mercy, and forgiveness. As my two oldest children enter into young adulthood, I found myself becoming frustrated with their lack of maturity and ability to accomplish certain tasks. My initial response was to be angry with them. They should step up to the plate. Don’t they know how much I have sacrificed for them? The truth is that they don’t. I want them now to do things that I have never required of them. So I had to make a decision. Stop arguing with them about what and how I want things done and take time to show them. I created a list of things that need to be done around the house and a schedule of who and when each one in the house is responsible for doing it. I’m starting by teaching them how to cook! How wonderful will it be to enjoy a meal that I don’t have to spend time preparing? The girls are so excited. Who would’ve thought that they would actually want to participate? One cooked, the other washed dishes. A beautiful harmony of teamwork! We are still in the process of building our routine. I just found it amazing how they crave the experience of learning. They were both excited creating and preparing something that the whole family could enjoy. Our children will never be productive adults if we never let them try new things. The important factor is who teaches them and who is setting the boundaries. There is a natural desire for belonging and ownership. I have learned when you allow your child to feel like they have a part in the big picture, they are more willing to cooperate with the steps it takes to get there. It’s okay to be vulnerable around your children to their degree of maturity. When they see you respond to your struggles with the word of God, they will also be able to rejoice in your victory and appreciate the blessing that comes with it. God is growing me in motherhood every day, and I thank Him that it’s never too late for new ways and new thinking!
Lamentations 3:22,23 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassion fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness
Father, we thank You for your mercy that is new every morning. Thank You for renewed minds and transformed hearts. Thank You for building our families and healing our relationships. Forgive us for times where we have got it wrong. Show us areas where we can improve, that we may produce mature productive adults that give you glory in everything they do. Help us pray without ceasing for our children. Give us access to their hearts and a gentle spirit that draws them close. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!
Lamentations 3:22,23 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassion fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness
Father, we thank You for your mercy that is new every morning. Thank You for renewed minds and transformed hearts. Thank You for building our families and healing our relationships. Forgive us for times where we have got it wrong. Show us areas where we can improve, that we may produce mature productive adults that give you glory in everything they do. Help us pray without ceasing for our children. Give us access to their hearts and a gentle spirit that draws them close. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!
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