Devotional: Every Child is a Problem Child

Every Child is a Problem Child

*I am teaching a mini series in my Ladies Connection Class from the book Kids Without Chaos by Mrs. Evans.  Here is what I taught this Sunday.

One of the best kept secrets is that every child is a problem child.  You are not alone in pulling out your hair trying to rear children.  It's hard!  In fact, many of us adults are fighting problems we had as a child.  So that makes it doubly hard!  

 What can you do with your problem and angel children?

Thoughts:

1.   Realize that you will always be spending more time with the problem child than you probably will with the angel child.  Don’t let your angel go unnoticed.  You will not want them to grow up hurt because Mom never spent time with me.  They need you just as much.

2.   Often, problem children, because of their personalities and drive, will go on to do great things.  Guide them to desire to do great things for God.  You have the influence to guide them in the right direction!

3.  Don’t compare angels to problems.  Not in front of them.  Not in front of each other.  Not ever.  It's not fair and it will only cause hurt to one or the other.

4.  Realize that just like you don’t like your own personal weaknesses – your child doesn’t like their weaknesses.  It frustrates them.  They feel inadequate next to the other child.  Help them work on their weaknesses.  Help them grow.

5.  Learn the children you work with.  They are not all the same.  Ex. Your children, your grandchildren, your SS children.

Learn their strengths and weaknesses.  Create a plan of how to help them.  Are they shy?  Give them opportunities to be away from you.  To be on their own in good scenarios.  Are they bossy?  Teach them how to be a leader.  They have those skills, they just need to learn how to use them. 

6.   Love who they are.  Love them individually and uniquely. 

“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalms 139:14