By: Carole L. Haines
My son, if your heart is wise, my own heart also will be glad,
And my innermost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right.
(Proverbs 23:15-16)
Not everyone is a parent, but in general we all have areas of influence. I just retired from being a Pre-school teacher, that was an arena of influence. I taught Sunday School for years, I was a Youth Leader. I was a women’s teacher/leader, a worship leader, etc. But for me, the greatest arena of influence has been my own family; My precious husband and three children. There was a time in my earlier life as a Mom, that I was so into my ministries, I neglected the time needed to grow up my children. I heard God’s Gentle Whisper to my heart, “What good is it Carole, if you gain the whole world, but lose your own children.”
That was a screaming wake-up call for me to shift focus home to my own wonderful family. I have not been overcommitted in ministry after that lesson. I have two sons and one daughter, and they are my greatest joys in this life; as is my Beloved husband of almost 36 years. My Mom has a favorite verse she has reminded me of often.
“I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.” (3 John 1:4)
Amen, Mom! I get that now, and I am overjoyed with love for my children, though not all are walking with Jesus right now. We all must journey alone in our faith walks, making our faith our own and not the faith of our parents. So, Journey on, My Beloved Children, I am praying without ceasing for each of you. I believe my God loves my family way more than I do and is gently pursuing. their hearts.
My son/daughter, if your heart is wise, my own heart also will be glad,
And my innermost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right.
(Proverbs 23:15-16)
hisshadowings.com 