I’ve learned that if I can get through troubles with grace and gratitude, I will benefit from them in ways I could not have even imagined. When they pile up, sometimes it’s hard to be thankful, and even harder not to complain bitterly.
God is teaching me that He is here, even in the darkest hours; He will not let me shoulder these difficulties alone. He “leaves a light on,” so to speak, and that light is His Holy Spirit.
When I find it hard to love my child’s inexplicable “teenage behavior,” I am learning to love her through it. I’m beginning to hear a soft, quiet voice that says after the fact, “did you love her and show it?”
Instead of grouching, grumbling, or muttering under my breath in front of her, I’m instructed to simply love her and make her aware that I love her, no matter how she behaves. I’m to hug her and show her my love.
This is grace. Discipline in love. Discipline with love.
Thank you, Lord, for showing me the way. Thank you for showing me YOUR way. Now help me to implement it every day.
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life of a female bible warrior 
I always told my children when they did and said things that didn’t please me .. that I loved them and I’d always love them .. I just don’t love the things they say and do sometimes… but in their teens they are not adults they will not think like adults .. it’s our job to set an example and lead and steer them in the right direction .. sometimes they have no idea how to handle situations so they do what their friends do .. that’s when the parents have to ok everything. Do it while you still can cause once they leave the nest ..it’s much harder. Don’t do it in anger .. do it with love. A single parent has it harder because they don’t anyone to back them up. .. but God is always there to give you things to say .. walk close and you’ll know the sound of his voice.
Good luck..(((hugs))) for both of you.
By: hpylady on May 6, 2012
at 3:26 am
sunday blessings to you (~_~)
By: zendictive on May 6, 2012
at 4:42 am
You reflect on your life…this brings many blessings…and encourages us all to do this more…as Kahlil Gibran, a Lesbanese poet wrote, ” God does not live in my heart, rather I live in the heart of God”—you are doing this! You have great courage!
By: johannisthinking on May 6, 2012
at 9:20 am
Love this. Beautiful truth. Thank you, Adrienne!
Lord Jesus, pour out your grace. Fill us with your Spirit and enable us to walk in love. Let our lives reflect you in every way. Continue your good work of transforming us. Thank you for Adrienne. Bless her, Lord. Guide her steps. Let her life serve your purpose. Draw her ever closer to you. In your holy name – Amen.
By: wordprocessor on May 7, 2012
at 9:09 pm
Thank you, Johannis! I am moved that you think so. God bless you and thanks for reading.
By: the warrioress on May 20, 2012
at 2:02 am
Thanks, Pat, for the wonderful recollections and advice. This will come in handy…
By: the warrioress on May 20, 2012
at 2:38 am
And to you, Zen..thanks for reading.
By: the warrioress on May 20, 2012
at 2:39 am
Thank you for your prayers, Nat. (hugging) God bless.
By: the warrioress on May 20, 2012
at 2:40 am