The Correct Response

Some kids are pretty bold in their response as they engage in conversation. The moments of brilliance that result in laughter and hilarity are priceless and stand to be treasured; sometimes making an impact that we remember for a lifetime and at other times, lasting long enough to help us keep our sanity for another day.

Conversely, are the arguments and responses of varying degrees of defiance and disobedience; words created to emphasize one's most basic point... "It's not me" or "It's not mine."

What's truly amazing is that even as kids grow to become parents themselves, at times the conversation doesn't change with their own parents. My Dad and I still have moments much like I had with my child yesterday... "if you would just do what I said!"

As such, I've had many teachable moments of late with my kids; that usually result in my providing them my desired answer. 'Yes Dad' is the correct answer.

And yesterday, a spiritual truth came to light as I told my youngest these words in expressing my frustration...

"'Yes, Dad' solves half the problems in your life, child"

Isn't that how it works in our faith as well?

For the Christian in the pew, for the Clergy in the pulpit, if only we would respond to our Heavenly Father in like spirit as we wish our kids responded to our parental pleas.

How much would life be different?
How much more would life be blessed?
How much more ministry would go forth; anointed, inspired and effective?

Don't feel bad if this is hitting a little close to home. I'm having difficulty even writing it.

But consider if we learned this faith principle as much as we desire our kids to learn this life principle? May it work in our homes as God desires it work in our hearts.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that for those leading ministry and learning from ministry, that we would respond to our Heaven Fatherly with words of affirmation. May our hearts be ever-so sensitive to the moving and prompting of the Holy Spirit. Pray the spirit of antagonism and argument be far from us as we work our faith and walk in it. May God help to live as better examples of what He can do with lives and hearts that are surrounded to Him. Pray we would witness a change in our world as we allow God to change our lives.

While the problems won't disappear,
May our attitude and response help dissipate
Their control and influence over our perspective
To trust God and obey in a greater dimension.
For His glory and to His credit
Because of our Father's love for us.

- PNC