I think the most important thing to remember as a parent is that as much as we love our children, God loves them more. As much as we like to think of them as our children, they were his first. They have been in trusted to us while here on earth and it’s our responsibility to make sure they return to his kingdom.  

This summer has been a reminder to me as a mother that my responsibility is not to try and control the things that happen to my children, but to trust in the Lord that his plan is being carried out, and my place is to stand strong and trust in him. 

I’ve seen this play out over and over again with my oldest. While my earthly desire is to interject, fight, and try and force my will for him to happen, I’ve learned to quietly sit back and pray, and trust in him. And I’ve watched my prayers be answered in ways I never thought possible. 

I’ve watched him not only answer my prayers, but also protect my child and in the process bring those who had lost their way, home again to him. It has not been an easy road, there have been many stressful days, sleepless nights and tears. But standing quiet in my faith has rewarded me all that my heart has desired. 

I have my child still in my home, our relationship has not been strained by any action on my part, and my child is seeing the Lord work and change their other parent in ways I never thought possible.  

Nothing I could have come up with on my own would’ve ever been as great as the plan I am seeing play out daily for my child. He knows what is best, always.