Monday, May 15 – 3 John 1:4

I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.

Sometimes in life something that started out very exciting becomes just a part of our daily world and routine. This happens with the job we were excited to start, the school we were looking forward to attending, and even the role of parenting we longed for. In parenting, the everyday frustrating moments can make it hard to remember the purpose of it all. The spills, messes, and fighting matches tend to bring more stress than reminders of purpose. However, a moment seeming average or even meaningless does not dismiss its purpose in the kingdom of God. We can love and serve our children, practicing patience even in the hardest moments because we know the hope we are guiding them toward. We can rest assured that God will use each moment with purpose when we guide children in His truth. First Corinthians 15:58 says, “Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” Even as we wonder if we are getting through or struggling to find a way to parent through a difficult situation, we can stand in confidence that Christ is leading us toward the purpose of seeing our children walk in His truth.

• What are some struggles you have faced in discipling your children or the next generation?
• Why is it important to look for God’s guidance even in the mundane moments of life?
• Pray and ask God to remind you of the joy of being a parent and disciple maker. Ask Him to guide you in the mundane moments of this role.