Parenting “The Impossible Kid” With Love and GraceSample

When my youngest was three or four years of age, he would carry around a small vial with his boogers in it. He’d proudly show them off to friends and family. One day while dropping a meal off to the youth pastor at our church, Joey pulled out his prized booger vial and bragged about his collection. It was a bit embarrassing at first until the pastor made an endearing joke about having a collection too. You’re probably wondering why I would allow such a thing. See, the thing is, it brought my little toddler great joy, and I had bigger boogers to fry with my impossible kid, so it didn’t seem worth the energy.

Does our children’s behavior determine how good a parent we are?

I’m flawed, and I’m guessing you are too. And our children will be flawed, and sometimes their behavior may be frustrating, irritating, and confusing. Some days just being present will be enough. Just be present and seek love, and it will shine through on bright days, rainy days, and even through stormy days. Through permanent markers on walls to muddy dogs dragged in by muddy kids and flowerbeds destroyed by a little swordsman, at the end of your parenting trilogy, what is going to matter most?

Love will be what lasts. Not things.

It’s during difficult times we need to be careful that our love is not based on behavior. The more difficult children are, the more they need you and need to spend time with you.

When we are difficult, that’s when God is closer than ever.

With God, there is no condemnation. At all. Because of Jesus, God will never, ever condemn us. God draws us and guides us into love, truth, holiness, and usefulness.

The more connected to God we are and the more we understand His love for us, the more God, as our perfect parent, can guide us to better parent our children.

So what? Don’t allow your children’s behavior to determine your value or the worth of your parenting. Parenting is a long marathon and what you do matters.

Dear God, help me to remember You are always there to guide and direct me.

We hope this plan encouraged you. It is based on the book The Impossible Kid: Parenting a Strong-Willed Child with Love and Grace. Find more from Lucille Williams at LuSays.com.