We love restoration prayer at City Central. We love our four Rs. We love to repent and rebuke. However, this week I was delivered old school--by the word of God.
For those of you who don't know me well, you may not know my dirty little secret. I have anger issues--especially with my kids. One day I was running late and Ethan was being slow to get in the car. Inside I was absolutely raging--so much so that I was growling in my mind. I was hurrying Ethan along and he turned around and let out a fierce, very angry growl right at me--it was the same growl I was doing in my mind! My goodness, if that isn't evidence for generational sin and open doors, I don't know what is. Unfortunately, my growls don't always stay in my mind.
Last week I was meditating on James 1. Let me quote what rocked my world:
James 1:19-20 (AMP) Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry. For man's anger does not promote the righteousness God [wishes and requires].
Everytime my anger comes up, whether it be with my kids, my husband or other relationships, it is always (at least in my mind) desiring to "promote" greater "righteousness" in their lives. Whatever has offended me, in my pride, I usually account as their issue.
Now this verse echoes in my head, especially with the kids. "For man's anger does not promote the righteous God [wishes and requires]." In other words, "Carrie, your anger is the least effective parenting tool you have." It is almost a promise that whatever I do in anger, will NOT change my kids. Wow.
Jesus, thank you for your grace, your forgiveness, your mercy and your Word. Thank you that your Word has the power to change us!
Read what James 1 says next:
James 1:21 (AMP) In a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted [in your hearts] contains the power to save your souls.
Amen? Thank you, Jesus, for deliverance.
Granted, I'm only a week into this new Word implanted in my heart, but I have had supernatural grace with my kids and way more self-control and perspective. Thank you, Jesus!
Thanks for letting me share,
Carrie Jones
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Praying for sick Kids
Leandra Young is going to be praying for kids sick with juvenile arthritis on May 30th at an Arthritis Foundation walk at Point Defiance Point. She'd love some company! Will you call Leandra if you love to pray for sick kids and would love to join her? 253-926-0437. Thanks!
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