Friday #4 devotion

Nehemiah 8:10b--the joy of the Lord is my strength.

A very wise minister once taught me, "Rules without relationship
breeds rebellion." I believe that the truth of that lesson is found in this verse.
To have a strong and credible influence in our children's lives, we must have
both types of moments with them. They must see our joy in their place in our lives
just as much as they see our authority over their pathways.

There are millions of opportunities each day for us to instruct, discipline, and
correct our children. There are tons of minutes in our day where we have to be
stern, serious, and sincere in our guidance within our home. But is it just as important
for our children to know that we enjoy them. They need to see that we enjoy our
lives. They need to know that having them in our lives is not viewed as a burden
by us. We must take time each day to laugh, play, smile, cuddle, or just love on
our children.

It is easier to be serious all the time, but it is not as effective. Our children will be more
adaptable to instruction when they know that they are our attitude stems from a heart
of love. They will recognize when they are being pushed away because we are frustrated,
disappointed, or "fed up" with them. They need to know that we love them, enjoy their
company, and that we like who they are.

I make it a point of necessity each and every day to have at least two opportunities with
each child where they make me laugh or I tell them how amazing that I believe that they
are. I use those times to tell them how terrific they are and how much fun it is to be their
Mommy. I believe that my children will see that I not only love them, I LIKE them. I like who
they are and who they are becoming. I may not like every choice they make and I certainly don't
like some attitudes that present themselves, but I always like the gift they are to my life.

That joy in my journey with my children makes me strong. It keeps me alert and able to
watch out for potential hazards. It helps me see things from new perspectives. And, it
helps me from not becoming overwhelmed or full of disappointment. It gives me room in
my life to enjoy them and find many, many moments of true delight in our life together.

When a Mommy laughs, plays, and loves on her children, I believe that they will be drawn
to her. Our children should trust and prefer their parents over any other person in the world.
When we enjoy our life with them by creating happy memories, I believe we are giving them a
life and home worth hanging around. They will thrive and shine when we shower them with joy.
And that joy will solidify your bond, intertwine your hearts, and give you reservoirs of
strength and replenishment.

Confession: I not only love my children, I also LIKE them. They are a joy
to be around and I take the time today to have fun with my children. They will
see that their presence in my life is good. And we will strengthen our relationship
today. My children love me and want to be with me just as much as I want to be
with them.