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Kids operate at a different level from adults. You may have just hung up the telephone, troubled by what someone said to you, but your kids don't notice your furrowed brow. From their perspective, they want to know when you're going to take them to the park. Lost in confusion and dismay, you snap at them that you don't know when!

Children don't understand that you're upset with the person or the telephone, so if you're wise, you'll make a space for yourself to turn this troubling encounter over to God. Otherwise, you'll take it with you and take it out on children who don't understand what they've done wrong.

Within that space, release the troublesome situation and accept God's rest. Sometimes you can retreat to the bathroom; other times, to a backyard swing. Still other times, scoop up that child; hold her on your lap while you ponder and pray. It's easy to think you're too busy or too strong to need to do this. And maybe that's true. But at the first sign of frustration, your children need you to dump your burdens on God—not on them. (See also Proverbs 15:1-4, 18; Titus 1:1-8.)

Good Words to Remember:
Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Today's Challenge:
What steps can you take so you'll dump your burdens on God, not on your kids?

Bible Studies on Parenting and Family