2:47 – Enthusiasm Can Be Exhausting

#faithbites #faithjourney #parenting Enthusiasm

Children are a gift from God. To see them excited makes me excited. One thing I’ve noticed is when my children get really excited, they go off the rails. High pitches squeals, running around, being nutty, not listening, and being LOUD. Part of this is just seeing pure joy, part of it is not knowing how to channel their enthusiasm. But for me, it’s exhausting.

I’ve come down on them before when they are being loud and running around. When they respond they are just excited, it’s hard to be mad. While I want them to know joy and excitement, I want them to know how to control it. It’s difficult to strike the balance of living in their excitement and being an adult setting boundaries. I don’t want to squash their fun, but at the same time, teaching them a time, place, and way to show it that doesn’t impact others negatively.

Scripture

• Start children off on the way they should go,
      and even when they are old they will not turn from it. – Proverbs 22:6
• Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. – Ephesians 6:4
• Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. – Colossians 3:21

Reflection

One of the strongest, most important influence on our children is their parents. We can help mold them and give them the right start in life. We want them to remember how to behave, know the Lord, and encourage them. Our verses today all show the roles that we have as parents: teachers, coach, spiritual leader, psychologist, and many more.

One problem is many of us were not raised like this. We were raised in anger, without instruction, and encouragement or any variation there of.

I want to provide my children with the boundaries but let them explore. Have freedom within rules. Enjoy life but know where the sidelines are.

This is a challenge for me. Is it for you? We need to provide the boundaries and help them know not only what is out of bounds but also what is in bounds. My only hope is that when we correct them we are doing it in love and encouragement.

Charge

We all need to discipline our children (and others when appropriate). Think about the words and tone you use when you do it. Give them instruction and boundaries but do it in as kind and encouraging of a way you can.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help me raise my children in your word. Let me enjoy their enthusiasm and not quash it. Give me the words and the tools to provide boundaries while letting them express who they are. Help all of us to raise the next generation in your word, your light, and with your guidance. Amen.