7 Day No More Yelling Moms DevotionalEsimerkki

CHALLENGE 4:

Practice the “Start & Stop” with grace and patience.

Early on in my parenting, I had to realize that kids are much needier than I imagined. They are constantly asking for help or wanting to talk to me--which is a blessing, I know. But when I’m focused on tasks or working from home, I would easily get annoyed by the interruptions. It took me too long to embrace the “Start & Stop” of parenting. I had to learn that most of my tasks would start and have to stop to meet the needs of my kids and home, and then start again. 

Slowly, I learned that this wasn’t the end of the world. I also knew that I needed to stop yelling or getting exasperated by my child’s natural tendency to need me. I’m his mom! To bless my child is to stop and be quick to listen as our verse reminds us. I had to teach my kids when it was okay--and how--to politely get my attention, but I also learned to stop and look at my child to truly listen to them. 

When your child comes to you, practice stopping activities to listen and repeat back what your child is saying to you or ask them a question. Usually, our kids just want to be heard. Being quick to listen is a loving and godly attitude that goes a long way to remove the temptation of yelling and frustration in our mothering. 

ONE LAST THOUGHT:

Picture Jesus, at the ready to listen to YOU, today. He is never too busy to hear your heart. Why not do just that with the prayer below. 

LET’S PRAY:

Dear Lord, I thank You for being quick to listen to me. I want my kids to come to me because they know I care and will take time for them instead of being quick to anger or quick to rattle off orders or scolding. Help me to change, God. Help me to stop what I am doing and focus on them when they are talking to me or need me. Allow my heart to be compassionate and not irritated. Thank You, Lord, for doing a new work in me! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
 

CONSIDER: Being quick to listen is  a relationship-builder!