I worry a bit about failing to do all we could as parents. I have regrets. Today I read a verse that brings me comfort. Paul writes to his spiritual children:
“I am confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” Philippians 1:6.
These verses remind me that my children are in His hands. I can trust Him with them. I pray for both of them so much, and I pray for God to make me and my wife the best, godliest parents that we can be.
But after prayer, I’m reminded to rest confidently in Christ. Because He who began a good work in my children will continue to perfect it. He will keep working on them, even as they grow up and my parenting role changes.
Paul writes a second line a bit later that is applicable. He says that God can give my children the desire and the ability to serve Him.
“For it is God who is at work in you, causing you to both desire and to fulfill His good purpose” Philippians 2:13.
God gives us the desire to serve Him, and then He gives us the ability, the tools, and the opportunity. Nothing in our lives will ever be more fulfilling than serving God. Pray for that desire for yourself and your children and for opportunities to fulfill it.
Dear God, thank you that YOU began your good work in us and you will complete it. Help us yield to you daily, to give you free reign to do your will in our lives. Give us a deep desire to please you, and then bring us opportunities. Do your work in us so that we can do your work in the world. Our lives belong to you. Use them as you will. We surrender to your loving, perfect will.
ΑΩ
Household Words: 