The Empty Cup

Last night when I went to bed, I was feeling a bit frustrated with my kids. For some reason, they don't like picking up their dirty clothes and putting them in the hamper. I decided it was time to take action.

I've decided that it's time to stop getting mad. I've found it really doesn't do any good anyway. I'm mad, they don't listen, and then it just snowballs from there. So, last night I told them in a very calm tone that this was their last warning. Any clothes I found on the floor would become the property of Mom. If the clothes are confiscated and they want them back, they will have to pay to get them back. Not pay, as in I'm taking revenge, but actually pay for them, like a fine, with their own money or toys or whatever will make it a little uncomfortable for them.

I went out to supper with some girlfriends and we had this discussion...that we, as parents, have come to "coddle" our kids. We began to wonder what would've happened 100 or 150 years ago if this would've happened. I think Dad would've taken them out back and given them a good lickin' for not obeying and not being responsible.

It's kind of scary whenever we watch TV and see programs like "the world's strictest parents" and shows like that. Kids shouldn't be running the show telling the parents how things are going to be within the home. That's why God gave parents authority over them. He gave the parents wisdom and discernment, not the kids. Anyway, when it's all said and done, we are the ones that have to answer to God, not the kids.

So, I've been challenged to be a better parent. To love them so much that they WANT to listen to us. Now, that's going to be different for each of my kids. My daughter loves talking to me, so I need to be a good listener. My 7 year old loves to play wii, so when he asks for me to play, I need to be available to play. My 6 year old needs to feel safe and secure, so when he wants love and affection, I need to give that to him. These are just a few ideas that come to mind. There are many, many more.

I want my kids to be well adjusted so that when the time comes, I can pass the baton of responsibility, integrity, hard work, and godly character into their adult lives. Ugh! Parenting is hard.

So, in the meantime, while they are at school, I have a moment to get my cup full so I have more to give when they get home. I could stamp today. I know that fills my cup, but only momentarily. Maybe I should sit with Jesus today. I know of no better way to get my cup full. Besides, He promised that He came to give us life to the fullest. I want that. I need that. And so do my kids. What will you use to get your cup full today?

Thanks for visiting today!! Glad you stopped by.

TTFN,
Debi