But He gives us more grace. – James 4:6
My children (who look so perfect in the picture above) have been in rare form lately. For the past two weeks, they have been incredibly hyper! I have noticed it, my husband has noticed it, and even our babysitter has noticed it. At first, we weren’t sure where this sudden burst of energy was coming from – perhaps lack of quality family time or the excess heat which has trapped us indoors for a couple of days? Despite our efforts to pinpoint, and rectify, why my children have been exceedingly loud and rambunctious… nothing has proven successful.
If this is the start of a new phase, I’m not sure there is enough diet coke in the word to give me the energy I will need to keep up with the little ones!
After breaking up yet another fight between two of my children, I found myself with very little patience. I took a deep breath, went into the other room, and simply prayed,
“Lord, give me grace with them.”
He did, but then He also made me aware that I have never prayed that when dealing with my husband.
While it is rarely easy, I do strive to be a gentle mommy. I am extremely sensitive about my attitude, actions, and facial expressions as a mother because of some hurts from my own childhood that I refuse to pass down to my children. I have a deep (and somewhat idealistic) desire to show my children the grace, patience, and love of Christ. Yet, I don’t have that same passion and conviction when it comes to my husband.
In the midst of my hurt feelings, frustration, annoyance, and anger, I have never prayed, “Lord give me grace with my him.” That should be the first response to the stressful moments in marriage! In fact, each morning I should say that prayer, no matter how I feel, because I can always use more grace!
While I do want to show my children the love of Jesus; I also want to show my husband the faithful, patient, gracious, and forgiving love that is so uniquely Christ.
How do you intentionally show the love of Jesus to your husband?
Linking with: Wedded Wednesday and Motivation Monday.
Gina Julian says
Oh Darby, I absolutely LOVE this…EVERY . THING . ABOUT . IT!!
darbyd says
Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words! (I still owe you an e-mail… will send it today!)
Rachel G says
I always remind myself that I would like to be shown grace–and that’s also a good way to remember to treat my husband as I would want to be treated, with grace!
darbyd says
That is excellent advice! Thanks for sharing!
Ugochi says
Hmnn… I love to make him all the nice foods he loves very much. And I am also learning to accept that he can make mistakes like me too.
darbyd says
Yes, remembering that husbands are sinners… just like we are… is very wise advice. Thanks for commenting.