Everyone knows being a parent is hard.
It’s the hardest job I’ve ever had. “Job” isn’t really the right word. I do consider it a privilege that God has given to me. I do not take it lightly.
As my girls get older, it just gets harder. Sorry, parents of babies and toddlers. There are days I pray to change a diaper or have a sleepless night. I miss those days.
But, also, as my girls get older, they get cooler and even more fun to be around (not that they weren’t before). Their personalities really start to shine through, as well as their temperaments. And, there are times when I see some of the values I’ve instilled in them put into action and notice a hunger for the things of God.
Honestly, each age has its challenges, but I find the middle school & teenage years harder.
I am in a constant struggle to get not worked up about things that I can’t control. That’s pretty much key with everything in life.
I can only control so much.
I can control their environments & their consequences, but I cannot control their choices. Only they can do that. That’s when I start to get scared and pray they’ve gotten something from their parents all these years.
I spend a lot of time praying. A LOT.
It’s pretty much my only “control” over their choices.
I pray that God would keep them and they would hold onto Him, never letting go. I pray that they would have a hunger for Him and the things of Him. I pray that God would put a drive and ambition in them to do something great in their lives for Him, and not settle for anything less than His best. I pray that God would give them wisdom … so much wisdom. I pray for protection and guidance.
And, I pray for SO MUCH MORE WISDOM FOR ME. This stuff is hard.
In the end, it is THEIR choice, THIER life.
A lot of times the only thing I can do is pray, then trust that God always knows best and loves them even more than I do.
Fingers crossed that I’m doing an OK job because God knows it’s not awesome. Also praying that they’ll need no therapy later on.
One thing’s for sure. I stinkin’ love these girls.
Can’t wait to see what God has in store for them!
Been praying some of those same prayers for my 17 & 20 year old. Been praying them for a long time.
I have to remind myself from time to time, God doesn't make me and I can't make them. I can only pray for them.
They are so beautiful. I can't believe how much they've grown since I started blogging! Little girls to young ladies. AHHH. Praying wisdom for you…and me. I think you're doing a mighty fine job.