Saturday, September 7, 2013

Thankful for Imperfection


I am not saying this because I am in need,
for I have learned to be content
 whatever the circumstances.
- Philippians 4:11
 
Last night I went to a small group. It was life changing. The group was for parents of children with special needs. I am currently walking through the process of testing my son for some learning challenges, and felt this setting could encourage & give wisdom as I walk uncharted territory.
 

You always think your current situation is the hardest until someone walks across your path with "it" just a little harder. It is humbling. It's refeshing. It's sad. It gives perspective. It causes us to move in compassion. It happened last night. As I sat in a circle of leather seats with eight other parents I was reminded of three truths. If I dwell on them, I can be a mommy making an impact in the name of Jesus...just like those parents I encountered last night.

Grateful Heart
Praise the Lord daily for the little one(s) He has entrusted you with. They will stretch you and make you look more like Jesus as you look at it as a blessing instead of a curse :) God gave a special mommy a very special child. The Lord hand-picked you to be the parent and will give you wisdom if you ask. As your heart is grateful you have the ability to impact many in the name of Jesus as they watch you walk this life through trying times.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.- James 1:5

Give Encouragement to a Weary Mom
Many are aware of the life you live. Watching and listening about the hope you have in Christ. As you find youreself struggling in the mommy role, ask the Lord to bring someone to mind that you can encourage in some way. Take your focus off your current situation and place it back on the Lord. We can be a vessel HE uses to help another mom who may be struggling. A meal. Babysitting for a much needed day out. A coffee. A note. A phone call. A text. We can miss ministry opportunities if our focus is on our struggling child (or situation) instead of Christ. Many hurting people. Allow your current situation to catapault you into helping another mommy. That is what our leader did last night. She looked for ways to encourage us as she shared her own struggles from the past.

Grab Hold of Truth
As I sat last night with other struggling parents, we were reminded of the power of the Word. How Truth changes our perspective. It enlightens a sad situation.  It reminds us this is not our home. It brings proper perspective and remind us how God sees our children. They are His workmanship. Created for good works. Truth also reminds us how God sees us too!

Do you have a grateful heart for your child?

Can you encourage a weary mom today?

In trying times with your child, do you grab hold of Truth and stand firm on it?

The Lord wants to do great things in and through your children. Don't sit down when it is time to stand up. He reminds us this refreshing scripture that gives great hope..

The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them. - Proverbs 20:7

I am thankful for my imperfection and ready to watch Him use it for His glory.

3 comments:

  1. Seems like God is already using you in this trial Kate! So greateful for women in my life who trust The Lord in every season! Love you!!

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  2. Amen Kate! You are always encouraging others through your walk and your faith and leaning on Him through everything! Love you!

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