Seeking Forgiveness in our Children

I always felt that kids deserve the same respect we would give any adult, which is why I cannot affored treating my daughter less than the way my Father in heaven would treat me.  Now, this doesn't mean that I do anything perfectly.....

There are times when I am sick, grouchy, short, quick tempered, out of grace, tired, hungry etc....and who do I usually take it out on first? Unfortunately, the people closest to me - the ones I love.  This is probably right for you too...if you'll be honest. 

But I believe this is something we can strive not to do. 

Treating our kids any other way than God's best leaves us feeling horrible about ourselves, and leaves them feeling just as horrible about themselves.  That's why asking the little ones for forgiveness is a powerful moving-forward tool.  You have to allow yourself the freedom to be imperfect and vulnerable; thereby learning to seek forgiveness and still like who you are. 

I think some parents are fearful to be vulnerable with their children because they feel they will lose their children's respect if they open up.  How can we teach our children to seek forgiveness from others if they do not see that example in us?

Vulnerability Builders:

• When have you felt that you need to be open with your children or loved ones?
• How did you deal with that emotion?

Hiding from God

Nehemiah 1:5-6

I think the real reason we pray so little is fear: fear of facing God, fear also of facing our own and others' brokenness.  Our hearts are saying: "Can I really trust God? Will He really show me His love when I don't keep anything hidden from Him - or will I be crushed by His anger and lose the little bit of freedom I have so carefully carved out for myself?"

"Do not be afraid" Those are the moments where you can get closer to God.  God is a jealous God, yes, but His jealousy is not filled with possessiveness and suspicion; as is our human jealousy.  This is why we have a relationship, and not a religious contract with God.

God loves us with a perfect love.  A love that casts out all fear and allows us to approach Him and His people in complete freedom.  He loves us so much that He in fact, passionately desires our love in response.

So, ladies, pray without fear, enter God's presence with a vulnerable openness. Learn to be silent in His presence, so He can first speak to us and reveal us to ourselves as women created in love and created free to love. Then we can respond with a full "yes", affirming from the depth of our hearts that we are indeed made in the image and likeness of God.

Love Builders:

• What fears keep you from sharing openly with others?
• What fears keep you from feeling free to approach God in prayer?

Be Open to the World

Inviting people to your home is one of the most effective ways of ministering to others; whether its a one on one invitation or by hosting a bible study group.

 

I think the reason why this is so hard for most of us, is because, we feel that our space is being invaded, or its just difficult to meet new people.  A lot of times, it's the conversations over coffee, or in our backyards, or over dinner that create meaningful connections with others.  Most of the non-outgoing people are lonely and are longing for a friendship, or a home where they can talk freely without the fear of being put-down.  We need to help people overcome that fear; and be a safe, peaceful place for them to come to.  When people sense that in you, they'll comfortably seek your feedback for situations they are facing. 

 

There's a lot of hurt, anxiety and frustration in the world. Peace starts with the discipline of respecting your fellow human beings. Be kind to whomever you talk to, be gentle, and be gracious in what you say.  Add the Love of Christ to that and allow Him to work through you. 

Hospitality Builders:

• When have you sensed God's peace at work in your home?
• In what ways can you picture yourself using your home to reach out to the lonely?