M.O.M.M.Y. Mother of Many Montana Young

Toe to Toe with a Two-year old

Even after six older siblings going before him, I am still amazed at the distinct determination that God has blessed children with.  My two year old son Joel can certainly hold his own  just about any  time of day with just about anyone who cares to do the two year old tango. 

You know what I'm talking about: when you gently ask them for obedience and they just as politely turn to you with a "NO!"  Then you try again with a bit more firmness in your voice and you are (not so politely) responded to with a rather loud "NO!" and possibly a scowl...oh let the games begin!!  How I wish raising children were as easy as following the rules to a game.  Usually, when you follow the rules of a game, you can predict a fairly peacable outcome..someone wins and someone loses.  For those of us with toddlers, it is never quite that easy.  We know that there is so much more at stake in that "no" response (as cute as it may seem at the time). 

Our children have been given to us for such a short time, and the way that we respond to their sinfulness will have long term effects.  We must constantly be heaven minded and remember that our kids are in need of training, correcting, and rebuking in righteousness (2 Tim 3-16-17).  We have an obligation and duty given by our Lord to instruct these precious little ones.  But oh, what a daunting task this can seem at times.  Especially when you have corrected the same behavior perhaps dozens of times. 

My little boy Joel is full of life, full of smiles, full of joyfullness that is harnessed in the hearts of little boys who want to wander, explore and experience their world hands on ALL the time.  Right now, he is, in his boyish way, attemtping to befreind his grandparents little dachshunc, who wants Nothing to do with him.  He has been warned and disciplined for similar attempts all week long.  This time he was nipped a bit, perhaps that will serve as a reminder in the future.  Or perhaps not.  He is a seeker, a fighter, a go-getter, one who wants to find out about this world through his daily trials and adventures. 

I love this little boy,!  He is growing me in wisdom, patience, adoration for the uniqueness God places in each one of us.  And for his daily reminders of how much I need my Heavenly Father who is gentle, loving, and compassionate with me.  I am sure God smiles much the same way I smile at Joel when we turn to Him after we have been "nipped". 

Keep up the holy work that has been placed before you, it is well worth it...eternally worth it!!

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