Making much of parenting, and missing the point

The livingroom exploded into harsh, angry words as my children began arguing for the 900th time that day. As I heard the volume and tone of their voices, I was reminded of Proverbs 15:1. I reminded my children, again, to use gentle words with one another. And, thankfully, all seemed good again.

I've read a ton of books on how to use scripture in parenting. I have wonderful resources that guide me in helping my sweet children see their heart problem is usually bigger than they realize. I've prayed for guidance on how to best teach my children as we go. I've begged God to draw their little hearts to Him. It's so sweet to see God in the little things of our day.

But, what I did next, was almost inconceivable. Not long after the reminder from scripture left my lips, it was time for us to leave. And, since I don't usually do things on time, we were having to rush. By the time we were driving down the street, I had been pushed over the edge, and was chewing out my little ones for acting their age. My words were harsh. My heart problem was bigger than I realized. The very words I spoke moments earlier were the words I needed to hear myself.

It was in the next few days that God showed me that I was making much of parenting well, and was not making much of Him. I was using His very words to make my home quiet and manageable, yet not heeding the very words I was attempting to teach. I was making much of parenting well, and completely missed the point of enjoying God and His Word as the ultimate and final GOOD.

I am convinced that I am not alone in this. So, I encourage you to not make your goal: parenting well. I encourage you to enjoy your God, and your parenting will be an overflow of WORSHIP.

"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise." Deuteronomy 6:4-7