Originally published Thursday, 16 May 2013.
I am directionally challenged. If you tell me to take a left and a quick right, I will probably make a quick right, go straight, turn left and then call you….this has even been known to happen while I’m walking! Over the years I have come to accept this deficiency! No matter how hard I try or how many times I have been somewhere, I will probably get lost, or “turned around” and will need a little help getting myself back on track!
This challenge makes Siri my best friend. It also means that I long for directions that include landmarks—signs along the way to let me know that I am at least headed in the right direction.
Ironically, this is a lot like my parenting journey! I have my directions (the Bible), and I know where I want my children to end up. But as a mom, there are times when I make a quick right, when what was needed was a left later on down the road.
At ages 9, 6 and 4, we have not arrived. We are in the thick of the journey and I long for moments when my children give me signs that we are at least headed in the right direction, with the destination being a young lady and women with a heart that chases after Christ.
I love hearing that my girls helped a neighbor, invited a friend to church or prayed for help on a science test. It is sometimes these simple reminders that let me know that they are listening and that the seeds being planted are taking root!
On the other hand, there are times when I hear or see something from one of my girls that let’s me know we may need to take a different route. Being unkind to a sibling, arguing or complaining along with various forms of selfishness are just a few of the familiar roadblocks.
Today, don’t give up on guiding your children to their destination. Your encouragement, discipline, and guidance are the Siri of their young life, just pointing out the truth of God’s plan and destiny for them. Cheer them on when you see that landmark sign of their growth and be sure get them back on the right path, as they become directionally challenged along the way. Most of all, be the grace they need as you allow the Lord to be the grace you need, as you and your children drive on.
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