This is a reminder that I'm in a battle. Our flesh, the world, and the enemy all are raging against our purpose as parents to share Jesus Christ with our children. The reason I get frustrated is because I get caught up in thinking it's my battle. The truth is, the battle is the Lord's.
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you.
Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
--1 Corinthians 15:57-58
When I'm tempted to give up--to just relax and browse Facebook instead of opening the Bible with the kids after dinner--this scripture encourages me to hang in there.
I also realize that I can't do this alone. I remember the story in Exodus 17 where Moses was praying over the Israelites as they battled the Amalekites in the wilderness.
As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.
--Exodus 17:11-13
My children, just like the children of Israel, have enemies who want to kill their young faith. They want to convince them that trusting in Christ and their parents is stupid. They make sinful choices look really fun and attractive. Rob and I are battling for our kids every day when we pray over them and teach the truth. Who helps to "hold up my hands" when I get tired in the battle? My husband, my church, my godly friends, and the Holy Spirit who gives me strength.
Tonight I'm really tired and frustrated, and wondering if they hear a word we say. The Spirit drew near, though, and comforted my heart with the Word. I'm so very thankful. My hands are tired but lifted up for one more day.
