“… older women should be reverent in their behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to drink, teaching what is good, so that they may train younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, chaste, good homemakers, under the control of their husbands, so that the word of God may not be discredited.” (Ti 2:3-5)
Indeed witnessing is a powerful tool. The caring words we speak, the careful steps we take, the just actions and wise decisions we make can convince a negative and doubtful person to believe God’s words. Alternatively, our insensitive words and actions can lead hopeful Christians astray and cause unfavorable long-term consequences.
Indeed witnessing is a powerful tool. The caring words we speak, the careful steps we take, the just actions and wise decisions we make can convince a negative and doubtful person to believe God’s words. Alternatively, our insensitive words and actions can lead hopeful Christians astray and cause unfavorable long-term consequences.
Regrettably, my countless inconsiderate actions and hurtful words had negatively influenced my children’s behavior. They had seen the way I maltreated their father, how I took advantage of his kindness, and the many times I refused to submit to him, and instead made myself the head of the family. It was my way or the highway. I persistently belittled my husband in front of my children, which I think made it easy for them to dishonor their father. I was critical of how my family acted and responded to issues, easily succumbing to anger and frustration instead of listening and understanding their concerns. Further, I worked all the time, which made it too obvious to them that they were not my priority. Consequently, they emulated these wrong examples. They turned out to be grouchy, uncaring, irritable, distant, and impatient… like me.
However, our God is a merciful and loving God. He did not only save my marriage when He called me and my spouse to join the ME, He also healed me, children and our relationship. He brought to light all the negative feelings that were lodged in my heart for so many years and all the hurts I had inflicted on my family. God gave me the grace to forgive and to ask for forgiveness. Through constant prayer, confession, and daily mass, I came to realize that by putting God first, I can let go of my past, overcome sin, and strive to live a holy life. Through God’s grace, I aim to be a good role model to my children and encourage them to live a godly, spirit-filled life.
Lord, thank you for making me see my brokenness. Thank you for Your mercy and love. Please forgive me for the times I have led my children astray because of my selfishness and mistrust. Give me the grace to constantly show Your love to them in word and deed, so they may be inspired to live the Gospel, serve You without grumbling, love You and the people around them unconditionally, discern Your will in everything they do, and desire to become a loving spouse and parent someday. May I give You praise and glory all the days of my life. AMEN.
However, our God is a merciful and loving God. He did not only save my marriage when He called me and my spouse to join the ME, He also healed me, children and our relationship. He brought to light all the negative feelings that were lodged in my heart for so many years and all the hurts I had inflicted on my family. God gave me the grace to forgive and to ask for forgiveness. Through constant prayer, confession, and daily mass, I came to realize that by putting God first, I can let go of my past, overcome sin, and strive to live a holy life. Through God’s grace, I aim to be a good role model to my children and encourage them to live a godly, spirit-filled life.
Lord, thank you for making me see my brokenness. Thank you for Your mercy and love. Please forgive me for the times I have led my children astray because of my selfishness and mistrust. Give me the grace to constantly show Your love to them in word and deed, so they may be inspired to live the Gospel, serve You without grumbling, love You and the people around them unconditionally, discern Your will in everything they do, and desire to become a loving spouse and parent someday. May I give You praise and glory all the days of my life. AMEN.