Getting Desperate

Most Americans are addicted to self-sufficiency.  We’ll wander forty years in the wilderness rather than stop and ask for directions.  We’ll push ourselves until we drop rather than admit that we can’t do it all.  Underneath the business suit, the tool belt, the judge’s robe, the jeans and sweatshirt, we’re all wearing a cape and tight and pretending to be Super-Somebody, savior of the world.

As parents, we coast along, buy into that self-sufficient attitude, and think to ourselves, “I can figure this out on my own.”  But by the time we wake up, swallow our pride, and ask for divine intervention, our kids are teenager, and the die has been cast.

Vance Havner was right when he said, “The situation is desperate, but we are not desperate.”

Why pray?  Because prayer communicates our dependence on God, our comprehension that we are, indeed, desperate for God’s presence and help.   Prayer can’t simply be a fleeting sentence or two thrown heavenward when we’re struggling as parents.  It’s a privilege, and it is to be a priority.  It’s also a recognition that we are in over our heads.

Need wisdom for the tough challenges of being a parent?  I’ve got good news for you.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).

Our dependence on God in prayer gives Him an open door to come in and change things.  To change us.

Tap into that power.  Fill up your tank.  The task of raising godly kids is too big- and we are too small- for us to start anywhere except on our knees.