"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6
His defiant teen aged hands gripped the mattress seam as I attempted to pull him out of bed one Sunday morning. His strength now surpassed my mama strength and I was quickly losing the battle. But it was more than just a war of the wills between a teenage boy who stayed up too late on a Saturday night and his church-goin' mama; it was a battle for his heart.
While he questioned God - His very existence - I thought I was losing him. His questioning caught me off guard and sent my head searching for all those right words that quickly disappeared behind mama-grief. As a parent, torn between guilt and anger, I felt betrayed by God.
(Although this was a recent post, I'm sharing this over at Christian Childrens Author's blog today in obedience to God's prodding; as though someone needs encouragement in this area).
Blessings,
Dawn
An excellent article, Dawn. I've lived through this struggle twice (so far). My last child seems to be firmly on the right path. My first went way down the wrong one, but is now a loving wife, momma, and strong Christian. My second is still walking without Jesus. I pray he (and his sweet wife) will come back to the faith and live for Him. Thanks for the encouragement.
ReplyDeleteLinda, I'm so glad God used this post to encourage your heart. I think watching our children struggle with their faith is harder than launching them from the nest. God sees your heart and hears your prayers, Linda. He is faithful.
DeleteYes, the life journey process seems a key ingredient. My children are so young still, it's a perfect time for me to be asking this question... I want to be an honest example of a God follower who's learning each day. ~Blessings, Amy
ReplyDeleteHonesty means allowing our kids to witness our own need for Jesus in our imperfect moments and centering our hearts and lives around Him every day.
DeleteShowers of blessings today,
Dawn