Second Reactions
Sometimes our first reaction isn't always the best, and this morning, I realized that...
My teenager was looking disheartened, so I asked him what was wrong. He didn't get an assignment finished, and it was due first class. My first reaction was to take the opportunity for a mini lecture on priorities, where subjects such as television and computer were covered in 30 seconds flat. Although it was said in the kindest of ways, it didn't help much.
He was still upset, but now in addition to being concerned about CAT class he also had a guilt complex from Mom to worry about.
On route to the school, my second reaction finally kicked in, and I immediately knew that it should have been my fist. "Why don't we pray about it?" I asked. "Let's all quietly pray that Brendan's day at school will go well."
One by one, the children bowed their heads in silence bringing their hurting brother to the Lord, and one by one their prayers were carried to the caring ears of our Heavenly Father, who is able to heal even the frightened heart of a disorganized teen.
To all of our surprise, today was early dismissal. We'd all forgotten, but soon realized that God was blessing our day in a marvelous way. Secondly, Brendan found out that his CAT project wasn't due today after all, but rather today was the last class to finish it up.
I'm thankfull for second reactions, that teach me to turn even the smallest of things over to God so that He can work for and through our family in the marvelous ways that He does.
"In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths..." Proverbs 3:6
posted by Darlene @ 1:01 PM
12 Comments:
This is just so sweet and typical of family life. We are not alone in this parenting thing, are we?
precious.
Second Reactions. I fight first reactions, but often fail . . . at least on the inside. I'm SOOO glad God doesn't react like me. I'd be like the gopher being bopped on the head all the time.
Thanks for the nice comments, too, Darlene. God bless.
My reactions are like your first far too often. Thank you for being an example of a better one!
Oh, Darlene, what a wonderful lesson you were able to share with your children and with us.
I am thrilled that Brendan has another chance to turn in his assignment.
Blessings to you and your.
Wow! Isn't it nice when God so beautifully and quickly answers our prayers?
isn't it amazing when God changes us through prayer? the calming of our hearts b/c we've relied on him?
Ooooh, I am the queen of bad first reactions! Especially with my daughter, my response is usually to get angry first. I really need to heed your advice and seek another reaction first.
That was not a second reaction. That was a second guilt trip. Not that there is anything wrong with that. All moms should use guilt.
We're so lucky that God doesn't have a first reaction like us and then be done with us.....his patience astounds me, thanks for this post Darlene, it reminds me to slow down and take a breath before making (rash/quick) decisions
Amen, here's to second reactions! Prayer is always best. :)
ok i can't tell you how much i needed this today. *tears*
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