Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – May 6, 2015
To have a fool for a son brings grief; there is no joy for the father of a fool. Proverbs 17:21
Foolish children flail around trying to find themselves. Typically they are terrible at managing money because they have no concept of conservative spending and consistent saving. Then they look to Mom and Dad to bail them out. They desire a stimulus package from their parents, without structure or accountability. Childish children become masters of manipulation by subtly saying, “If you really loved me…” to guilt their parents into giving them what they want.
This grieves the heart of their parents. Their father and mother want to do the right thing, but become conflicted on defining what’s “right.” The dad may be firm and the mom more merciful, so it’s imperative they are unified in their approach to loving their rebellious child. They cannot allow Satan to drive a wedge of doubt between them.
Jesus said, “… a household divided against itself will not stand” (Matthew 12:25).
Start with sincere and aggressive prayer for a loved one bound up in foolish behavior. Pray that the Lord changes you and gives you the grace and courage to offer an aggressive love based on the love of your heavenly Father. You can love the unlovely as you ought, only after receiving the Lord’s unconditional love. Remember the joy you had when they came into this world as God’s gift, so trust their Creator to bring them back to Christ. His love is irresistible.
Lastly, confide in the Christian community about your sorrow and hurt. You may be surprised at how many have suffered a similar fate. Move beyond the mistakes of the past, and focus on faith in the present. Turn your child over to the Lord’s love and discipline. Pray that your foolish child will grow fatigued from folly, and return to faith in God. Thus you pray, “Christ, give me confidence to let them go and give them to You. And I hope one day for a celebration.”
“‘For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate” (Luke 15:24).
Prayer: How can I best pray for and reach out to my child who is away from the Lord?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 18:33; Proverbs 19:13-26; 2 Corinthians 2:3; 3 John 1:4
Post/Tweet this today: Move beyond the mistakes of the past and focus on faith in the present. #foolish #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- Chelsea Moon: What a Friend
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