February is not only a time to celebrate love, it is also a good time to check in on January resolutions. By this time, they’ve either been long-forgotten or better yet, are taking root as new habits.
It was during Christmas that I was inspired to make one of my resolutions. The kids had asked me what they could get me for Christmas. My answer was probably similar to what millions of parents have said before me, “I just want you to be good kids, love one another, mind your parents and God.” Maybe I asked them to color a picture for me too.
But it got me thinking—what can I give to my own heavenly Father? He gave His only Son, so that I may be His child too. What can I possibly give Him?
Doesn’t He want the same thing for me, as I do for my children? To love the Lord with all my heart, soul, and strength. And to love others as myself (Luke 10:27). What can I give Him that would help me depend on Him more to do this?
For me the answer came easily and humbly… my impatience. It is a gift certainly only the Lord could appreciate and handle! With foster parenting, going from 2 to 4 kids, and now having two in diapers—it hasn’t always brought out the best in me! How quickly and easily I realize I can run out of patience: with myself, with my situation, with these 4 precious children. It has been humbling.
Thankfully, God brought this verse to mind (and continues to bring many others!) that help me with this new resolution...
Humble yourselves, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up
in due time. Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you.
~ 1 Peter 5:6-7
So I cast my impatience on Him—as a “gift” only He would want, as my resolution for the New Year—asking for His grace, patience and strength in return.
What does God want from you this year?
He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you,
for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses,
so that Christ’s strength may rest on me.
~ 2 Corinthians 12:9
Thanks for sharing Star - no, foster parenting doesn't bring out the best in us, but you're doing it right... taking it as opportunity to face the ugly inside and seek God's transforming hand. My heart is with you. I know He will be faithful and you will be filled with joy at the work He accomplishes not just through you, but in you!
ReplyDeleteNicole, my heart is with you too, as you blaze the trail of foster-care before me. I appreciate your God-given wisdom, grace & tenacity for your family. God has used you as an example in my own life - thank you!
DeleteLove 2 Corinthians 12:9! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYes, such a good encouragement. Thinking and praying for you, friend!
DeleteThanks for sharing this Star! This was very encouraging to me today! I feel the same way, especially recently as our family has been sick! Thankful for the Word and the Spirit that can minister to us!!!
ReplyDeletePraying that health (and an extra dose of patience!) come quickly to you and your family! :)
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