Forgiveness: Pass It On

"Lord, why is it that we mothers feel embarrassed when our youngsters misbehave in public?  They are just being children, yet our cheeks burn with shame when they are less than perfect.  Then, to cover our embarrassment, we treat them unfairly or embarrass them.

Forgive me when I react to my children in a less-than-loving way, Father.  You never withhold your love from me.  Grant me the wisdom and understanding to deal with problems before they get out of hand; to avoid the anger that clouds my good judgment.

Childhood passes so quickly.  I don't want to spend it scolding and reprimanding.  Show me how to deal with my children in loving kindness, as you do, and to let them know how much they mean to me."

I read A Mother's Daily Prayer Book on occasion for morning devotions.  I read a variety of books whenever I get the chance.  I need insight.  I need guidance.  Sometimes, they strike me just right, right where I am. 

This devotion reminded me that:

“Be alert. If you see your friend [or child] going wrong, correct him. If he responds, forgive him. Even if it’s personal against you and repeated seven times through the day, and seven times he says, ‘I’m sorry, I won’t do it again,’ forgive him.”  Luke 17:3-4

 

"Your love means more than life to me, and I praise you."  Psalm 63:3

^"We love because he first loved us."  1 John 4:19

And, I'll add, we forgive because God first forgave us.