Empty Nest Full and Blessed a 5 -Day Reading Plan by Denita ArnoldSample

DAY ONE: WHEN IT'S BITTERSWEET

There is a natural occurrence when it's time for our children to leave the coup. The reality of an empty house can be terrifying, although this is a bitter day we tell ourselves we have mentally prepared for. Contrast this with the challenging years; sending them off may have been a day we lovingly prayed for.

With every one of our kids, the same feelings occurred. It got to where the minds and attitudes of the darlings we so lovingly raised had become arduous. They began to think that their curfews, allowances, chores, and responsibilities were up for discussion. These "almost adults" continued to challenge us, and we prayed for peace and patience through the process.

I am pretty sure God allows this bit of turmoil to occur so that, at some point, a part of us is ready for them to fly away. I wonder if the prodigal son frustrated his father to the point of the father saying, "Just take it and go!"

Yet still, in the quiet places of our hearts, we hide cherished memories of when they were our "littles." In those sweet moments, we are overwhelmed and lament as we step out of our familiar role into one that is seemingly not as essential.

Solomon wrote - For everything, there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1). When new seasons arrive, they can be bittersweet. Bitter as we grieve what was and sweet as we choose to look forward to discovering new parts of ourselves. God sees you in the bittersweet. You can cast all your anxieties on him because he cares for you (1Peter 5:7).

- What frightens you the most about entering an empty nest season?

- What are some things you can look forward to as you explore this new season?

- Ask God to help you in your fear and to show you what you have to look forward to.