Sisters in Faith
Precious Moments
By Tia McCollors
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. – Psalm 127:3
We tend to focus on our children’s big milestone moments. At sight of their first tooth, teetering steps, and their attempt to say “Mama,” we whip out our cameras to capture the precious moments. We call our family and friends so that they can share or experience the joy of it all. Before we can blink, they’ll be graduating from high school, college, then starting families of their own. They’ll be out of our homes, but never out of our hearts. Relish all of the moments in-between. Stroke their heads when they lie at the foot of our beds for no apparent reason at all except to be in our presence. Remember the first time they share with their siblings without asking and the first time they don’t have to be pried out of bed on Sunday morning because they’re excited about going to church. Every moment is a precious one.
Practical Application: Children crave our attention and will act in both positive and negative ways to get it. When we shower them with positive attention, they’re less likely to seek it in inappropriate ways and manipulative people. Instead of letting them close up in their bedrooms, or sending them outside to play, be intentional about inviting them into your world. Talk with them and listen to what they have to say. Eat together and spend time together in a room that’s unplugged from all distractions. Share your day, and they’ll share their hearts.
Prayer: Lord, you’ve given me a child to train up and I want to teach them based on Your word. Show me how to relate to my child because he/she is Your child, too. Thank you for choosing me to share in their victories and defeats. Let me be the kind of parent that my child will find easy to honor so that their days may be long.
Tia McCollors is a wife and mother who loves to encourage women to wear their faith like a designer label. Information about her inspirational novels and devotions can be found at www.tiamccollors.com.