Parenting by Design - January 28

A Parent's Comfort

Ps. 63:7-8: For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.  My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me (NASU).

These verses were written by King David during an incredibly turbulent time in his life. One son had been killed, his daughter had been raped, and another son was seeking revenge against him! David had just fled Jerusalem in fear after hearing that his son, Absalom, wanted to overthrow him as king. In David's position, I doubt very much that the words "I will sing for joy" would come to my mind!

But David saw God's protection and love as a safe place where he could be comforted. He knew from experience that when he humbly submitted to his Father, he would be upheld by the Lord. This did not mean that God would spare David from the consequences of his actions, but that He would walk with David through the consequences, providing hope and comfort even in the most difficult of circumstances. What an example for us as parents!

We should not rescue our kids from the consequences of their actions, but we can always offer a place of hope and comfort.