Slamming Doors

Door slamming is like an exclamation point. Isn't that true? A slammed door is an act of making sure everyone understands your frustration or anger. We've instructed the kids to not slam the doors, mainly because of all the little fingers that could be in the way. Often it is accidental, excitedly running outside to play and not paying attention. But also in our house right now, that dramatic exit belongs to my 6-year-old son. He will get upset for a myriad of reasons, but I notice it's mostly when he's misunderstood. This really irritates me, and I want to focus on the slam rather than his feelings or what he is upset with. I am realizing that it is OK to wait, let us both calm down, then approach his closed door and ask to talk. Responding, and not reacting, is such a test in patience!

A Mother's Hands Are Always Full

As a mother of five, the chaos and busyness of life can be overwhelming. I seek sources most every day of wisdom to help me push through, and remind myself that this season will move so quickly and I must enjoy all that comes with it. I found this newly published work ~ Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full : Gospel Meditations for Busy Moms by Gloria Furman. Recommended!

This little book is a wonderful resource for mothers looking for a spiritual uplift. It is a Gospel-filled, encouraging read from a mom who is very real and honest. Gloria Furman reminds us that we always need God's grace, no matter what's going on in our lives or what stage of mothering we're in. She uses scripture to point our eyes back on Christ and the wonders He has for those of us called to be mothers.

I think this would be an excellent choice for small group study. The chapters are short enough to get through quickly, but full of the Word and truth. There is also a free study guide to download at crossway.org/treasuring.

Encouraging Our Children

Are you guilty of telling your children, "You can be anything you want to be"? I know I have said this many times over the years. It's a statement that can give hope to a child that he or she can do anything they choose to do. It's meant well. But really it isn't true. We all have specific gifts and personalities, but none of us has the anything gift. Encouraging our children in this way could set them up for failure in the future. Failure only because it isn't something the God would lead them to do. Jeremiah 29:11 states, "For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."

He made our children the way He wanted before they were born, and He planned out what He wanted them to do even before they were born. We do not get to choose what gifts our children will have, God does. He gives different gifts and in different amounts. God expects the gifts He gives to be used. So now I have purposed to say "You can be anything God wants you to be." Because that is true. It keeps a God-focused future in front of them instead of a self-determined one.

Visit The Time-Warp Wife for many more encouraging posts on parenting, marriage, and being a homekeeper.