Proverbs 25:11 A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
Words as a gift…I have never thought of them that way. Proverbs 25:11 says, when taken simply, that the words I say to others should be given as a gift. That is quite profound in terms of mothering. As moms, how many times do we have to correct, chastise, or plain old fuss at our kids? I can tell you that as of nap time most days, I’ve lost count! Yet, when I read that verse, it really made me think about the words that come out of my mouth.
Is it possible that I can still correct my children, providing essential discipline, while simultaneously using my words as gifts to those that I love? Yes, I do believe it is possible. Easy? Not on your life! Possible? Yes.
As I set about this quest, I determined that even in frustrating situations (freezing temperatures, gusting winds, and a house full of 4 cranky kids and 2 wound up dogs), I will try my best to use my words as gifts. When I speak out of anger (yelling), my words are definitely not a gift. The exact same words can be said in a calm and quiet tone, and at that point, they are a gift. When a fight breaks out, I can either yell in a maniac mom voice, “YOU DO NOT HIT YOUR SISTERS! GO TO TIME OUT!” Or, I can quietly state in a soft but firm voice, “You do not hit your sisters. Go to time out.” The exact same words were stated. The tone, delivery, and message, however, were entirely different.
Even words of correction are a gift because it is our jobs as mothers to teach and train our children in the way of the Lord. So, we can’t let bad behaviors slide. But, we can correct them with a tone and demeanor that essentially says, “I love you. What you did was wrong, and here is how to change that behavior…”
Prayer: Father, who loves and trains me, thank you so much for guiding me on this quest. I want to be an example of your love to the children you have placed in my arms. Please give me the strength to learn the lesson you are teaching me, and the wisdom to apply what I am learning to the way I mother my children day in and day out. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment