Greetings Prayer Warriors,
While at Mass on Sunday, I sat in a pew behind a father with 5 kids. The youngest appeared to be about 1 year old, well tempered, but as fidgety and unpredictable as a 1 year old! I saw the father get up and leave the pew due to the child’s outbursts no less than 6 times! The father’s steady demeanor did not waver.
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up with the training and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4
That father impressed me. He was a living example of embracing headship, raising his children in the Lord, and maintaining discipline, while honoring his wife by stepping into his role as husband too. I later learned that his wife was in the back of the church for some reason, but he didn’t interfere with that.
On the way of wisdom I direct you, I lead you on straight paths.
Proverbs 4:11
So often arguments can arise between spouses over whose turn it is with children, what is appropriate discipline, whether or not the division of responsibilities is fair, allocation of me time, etc. But when spouses are aligned, everything else falls into place.
Many are the plans of the human heart, but it is the decision of the LORD that endures. Proverbs 19:21
Knowing the challenges of marriage and family, I’m asking that you focus your prayer this week on married couples with children at home.
Lord, while children are a blessing, they don’t necessarily make married life easier, but rather expose the flaws in the relationship. We ask you, Lord, for abundant graces to flow upon marriages, especially those in the throes of parenthood. Continue to send examples of beautiful marriages to give hope to those not yet where they desire to be. For those struggling, send them mentors to guide them through their challenges. Guard them against the wiles of the devil, who constantly seeks to divide and destroy their union. Finally, hear our prayers on their behalf, for strength, perseverance, and protection. Jesus, we trust in You!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Pray it forward and pass it on!
