Encouraged

So this is Dan's first week back at work since the end of April (see previous blog for explanation) and I think I underestimated how much I've come to rely on his help during the past couple months. Being alone with the girls all day is harder than I imagined for many reasons. Madison is in a very independent, stubborn, strong-willed phase... and yes I'm calling this a phase because I pray that as she gets older she won't always be so challenging. She will be three in October and I've hard that two is hard but three is even harder and the closer she gets to three the more I totally believe it! Don't get me wrong, she has such a sweet spirit about her in many ways, and often I have to remind myself of this when she is pushing my buttons. She absolutely LOVES her sister, the way she interacts with her and gives her special attention confirms her loving and affection heart. And Kyleigh is the sweetest baby I've ever known. Of course, you may think I'm biased and I am BUT other people say the same thing allllll the time. She never cries. She is never grumpy. She smiles constantly. And she is so laid back that you sometimes forget how young she is! It always amazes me that both are our children but are so opposite in personality. It's incredible how God creates life and makes each person so unique and different yet beautiful in everyway. I'm reminded of this every day when I look at those two precious girls. But the task of raising them and trying to fulfill my role as a Godly parent in their lives has proven to be more difficult than I ever imagined. Earlier today in the car I was listening to the Christian radio (which quite honestly, I rarely do because I'd much rather listen to my choice of worship than the generic contemporary christian cheesy stuff) and focus on the family was on. I have no doubt, God wanted me to hear it so I could be encouraged. Two different women were talking about the challenges of raising children and how to instill Godly values in their lives. I would say my biggest fear as a parent would be raising children who grow up without a relationship with Christ. I want them to love Him and know Him and live their lives in pursuit of His calling for them. In the day to day routine and frustrations of life, I know I fail to be the kind of parent that I so desperately want to be. I am so scared sometimes that my short comings are going to cause my children to distance themselves from God which leaves me feeling paralyzed and inadequate. Listening to this message stirred something in my heart and gave me the encouragement I needed to be victorious over the voice of the enemy. I am praying every day that I could be the parent they need and that God would impart his wisdom in me so I could discover what His purpose is for each of them. I have posted the link below, and I would say to any moms out there who are looking for encouragement to listen.
http://www.focusonthefamily.com/popups/media_player.aspx?LatestDaily=1