Mommy & Baby Devotion- A Parent's Impact

Wow, the impact we have on our children... with our words, actions, touch and even body language. Yes, we've talked about this before, but I am so amazed at the huge impact our words and actions have on our kids. Have you noticed your child beam with confidence after telling him or her, "Great job," "thank you," and/or "you are such a great helper", "I love you"? My daughter beams from ear to ear and shows such joy when she sees me or daddy delight in her. She tends to be a little natural encourager too. It's rather funny and cute when I am changing her baby sister and she tells me, "great job mom," or she tells others, "great job" when they are at some random task. It just blesses my heart, especially when she can be joyous and delight in herself too. Get this, after bringing my toddler breakfast the other morning, she says, "Mom-you're a good mommy". How sweet is she! Thankfully our baby is also enjoying sweet delight too.

I believe that awesome delight is of the Lord and from Him. I am thankful that we can instill in our children a greater worth than is offered by this world and their surroundings. It is the sweet touch of the Holy Spirit working in us to do His good will. As Phil 2:13 says, "for it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure," and 2 Corinthians 9:8 "and God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work." So, we are capable in the Lord's strength to do such good and to be sufficient in the process? Awesome. Since our actions speak louder than words most times and since our actions will impact our children and be with them always, let's be cheerful givers and watch our tongues and harsh words in this season of parenting. This doesn't mean no discipline is in store rather that we go about it as God so often does with us, with a gentle and loving hand and kindness.

Reflection: The Bible tells us that God disciplines the ones He loves, so let us follow that example as well. What a great way to teach our children to love themselves and honor themselves and God, to have boundaries and excel in what they do, not fearing failure and disappointment but learning to embrace life as it comes their way. Think about some of your moments of delight growing up as a child, the sweet memories with mom and dad and how they shaped you. Give them a call and let them know how much they mean to you and if it isn't mom or dad who made such a positive impact, remember those who have and if they are around, give them a call or write a letter of encouragement and blessing to them, telling them how much they mean to you and what their words, example, and actions have done for you and yours.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for your amazing example to us, for your discipline and delight. I pray that we would go forth in "good works", doing your will and being sufficient as we rely upon you. Help us to be natural encouragers and discipline when needed with your loving hand. Help us to honor you and those who have blessed us in our life's journey. Allow our children to excell in you always and to delight in you and have a God confidence so they can also delight in themselves.