If you are a parent, you have probably had at least one moment of frustration this week. It happens…you step on that piece of Lego, your little one has discovered the bag of flour and has had a party with it, you are tired, irritated, and you feel that there is no end in sight to the craziness of your day.
When things get to this point how do you press pause, and recalibrate your mind and emotions? Jesus is there in those moments, and he wants to give you his perspective and peace. Find a quiet space (if possible) and pray this prayer. Allow his presence to calm you so that you can ease back into your day with a fresh outlook.
“Father, may I not react in this moment in the blindness of my own emotions. Rather, help me to see my children as you see me, a sinner in need of grace. Help me to respond with a perspective that is not reactive and oblivious to the truth. Instead, give me wisdom and patience to shepherd my child’s heart toward your mercy and ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27)
