This morning’s devotion spoke volumes to me especially after yesterday’s homework incident.

http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/2009/01/youre-can-do-kid.html

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

I was encouraged by how Renee shared about how she managed to turn around her “I Can’t” son to a “Can-Do” kid simply by changing what she called them.

It was a great reminder of how Peter and Gideon rose up to be mighty men of God despite being shifty and wimpish, probably in large part due to Jesus calling them a “rock” (Peter) and “mighty warrior”(Gideon) even when their actions warranted other “names”.

Yes, I must look beyond my frustration to see what lesson I can impart to my children in every moment rather than be clouded by the heat of the situation. I must always strive to bless and uplift, not curse nor tear down.

Lord, today help me to look out for opportunities to encourage my children to be Can-Do Kids just as You have called them to be. Set a guard over my lips so that the names I call them by are life-giving and never destroying. Help me always remember to bless and encourage and never tear down, no matter how frustrated I am. Thank You for this lesson and reminder. 

"May there not be any unwholesome talk come out of my mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29