I consider myself a very kind and patient person. I have a lot of patience for crazy drivers on the road, incompetent customers, friends who disappoint me. I actually react with kindness in the most difficult situations.
SO, why is it that I have absolutely no patience and little kindness for the four most precious and lovable people in my life?
The other day I was reading about the fruits of the spirit, and in particularly, kindness and patience. I felt convicted that I need to apply this mostly with my children. I went to bed in prayer that God would help me in this area of my life.
---I woke up the next morning singing and smiling, in a perfect mood, and nothing but kind words were coming out of my mouth --
OK -THAT TOTALLY DID NOT HAPPEN!!!!
I woke up late and grumpy. I began attempting to get the kids going (which is never an easy feat in my house - they love to sleep as long as possible in the mornings), after not responding for a while the yelling begins - "Get up now!" "You're going to be late for school!" "You better be dressed by the time I get done putting my makeup on!" - Definitely the worse of days I had in a while.
Was God trying to test me? Was the devil getting a foothold?
As I drove them to school that morning, I began weeping. I told them I was sorry. I was mostly upset with myself.
God, please help me to be kind and patient in all areas of my life - especially with my own children!
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control...
Galatians 5:22-23
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