Galations 6:9

Do not grow weary in doing good, for in the proper time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up.

My word for the year is perseverence. Perseverence in what? Well, you name it, I need to work on it! My focus lately has been persevering in diligent and purposeful parenting. Guiding with intent instead of just putting out fires as they arise.

We are currently studying 2 Timothy in Bibly study. The first chapter is full of exhortations and instructions from Paul to Timothy. As we were discussing the diffent meanings of exhortation and instruction, our leader pointed out the fact that there was a lot more exhortation going on. Paul wasn't blasting poor Timothy with instruction after instruction, but would present him with an instruction, and then gently encourage him. Oooohhhh...light bulb! It was almost comical, because all the mom's with young kids looked at eah other with embarassed smiles.  We all came to the realization that Paul is giving us a wonderful model of HOW to encourage our children to obedience - not that we don't instruct them, but that instruction is followed with loving encouragement. How often do I rattle off a bunch of commands (someone made a crack about them being a drill sargent!), and get frustrated when they don't move as quickly as I would like? Do I then gently encourage, or do I continue to issue orders?

The definition of the greek form of exhort (parakaleo) used in 2 Timothy is "to call on, entreat, urge" one to a specific course of conduct. This is a directive to be looking to the future. Okay, I realize this seems a little technical, BUT, it is so important to understanding the purpose of exhorting! We urge or entreat them, in order to guide them to a positive course of future action. We are calling on them to growth in obedience! What a privilege we have been given as mothers - to be used by God to urge our children to grow in their obedience to the Lord! And even more amazing - through the action of guiding our children, we are convicted of our sin and grow also!

Lord, please give me perseverence as I guide my children to you. Help me to have a tongue that teaches kindly, and that urges my children toward obedience. Forgive me for my harshness and impatience - for seeing these little ones as a bother at times.  Cleanse my heart, and mold me into the likeness of your Son, so that I might impart His love to them.