For Christmas, my husband gave me a copy of Stormie Omartian’s book, The Power of Praying for Your Adult Children. In it she says, “Although there are different stages and seasons of parenting responsibilities, your heart and mind will always be with each one of your children for the rest of your life. And this is no easy task, for no matter where they go or what they do, a part of you goes with them.“
You never quit being a parent, nor being concerned about your kids, their decisions, choices, etc. Stormie goes on to say in her book “We parents of adult children may have many concerns, but not necessarily the opening to do anything about them, or even the opportunity to voice all of our thoughts, suggestions, and opinions. At least not to our adult children. But we do have a grand opening to be able to express those concerns to God and invite Him to do something about them. And the greatest thing about that is, when we take our concerns to the Lord – trusting that God hears our prayers and answers them on behalf of our adult children – it means our prayers have power to affect change in their lives. And that gives us a peace we can find no other way.”
More and more, I am realizing that my greatest influence and impact on my kids comes not so much through me teaching and training them anymore, but from the time spent on my knees on their behalf. No matter what the ages of your children, I would highly recommend you pick up a copy of The Power of Praying for Your Adult Children. I wish I had read it when my kids were younger to help prepare me for their adult years.
Ahhh yes - praying, worrying, fretting - hard not to do as a mom - what I do best! Praying-good, worrying and fretting-bad! I have found that sometimes all we can do is pray and wait on the Lord - as they grow up and their brains stops growing (joke)-by the way they say it is 27 for boys, they do show you that what you taught and invested in them was not for naught! :-) One of the challenges for me has been once my children have gotten married, to not stick my nose in where it does not belong, but to be supportive and offer counsel if asked. I also find it interesting how my kids are different. My daughter is my friend and calls a couple times a week just to chat. She calls for advice - she gives advice. She shares the joys of her children and never complains about her husband - only says good about him. My son calls only when he needs something and never calls to just chat. He occasionally complains about his wife, but when I take his side, he is quick to defend her - so all of that to say, that I am still learning - how to be the best mom I can be, the best mother-in-law, and the best grandma - I am a work in progress, trying to reflect Jesus! Have a great day!!
ReplyDelete