The LORD gives us children as a blessing!  Sometimes, however, it may not feel like a blessing to have them. What a contradiction! This world we live in is a 'me' world.  Now when we have a baby, that little life is concerned about only one thing. That infant is thinking only of himself or herself.  Feed me, change me, hold me, comfort me.  In this case, its okay to be thinking about 'me'.  That little one cries for the attention that it desperately needs!

    We, on the other hand, are supposed to be adults and therefore putting the 'me' part of us aside. During the growing up years of our children, the most important thing we can give to them is us. This means sacrifice on our parts.  This doesn't mean you can't work.  Many mothers have to work in order to feed their children. However, once we are done with our job, our time is not our own! We should spend the short 18 years we have with our children, encouraging them, assisting them in growing up, and having fun with them.  Sometimes, we even have to discipline them.  But, if we do so, we are to do it lovingly.  

    The most wonderful thing is watching them as they grow up and begin their own families. That¹s when the real reward is seen. Having an adult relationship with your son or daughter is incredible. Being a grandparent is fantastic! Every day of our children's lives were bathed in prayer growing up. Now we have the responsibility of bathing our five grandchildren in prayer, as well.  Being able to go beyond ourselves, our heartaches and pains, our individual wants and needs to give to our children is so rewarding.  It takes an open heart before GOD to overcome the tug of worldly ways. Let¹s each of us be sure we are dedicating ourselves to our children, and our children's children!