Presents and your presence Week 25, 2014

“She just stalked off and said “He doesn’t even know what goes on in this house” I never knew I reared such rude children. Of course I thrashed her. So upsetting.”

You need to do more than beat a rebellious child; you need to listen. When the handwriting on the wall is written in crayon will you be able to interpret it? Parents, do not treat your children in such a way as to make them angry. Instead, raise them with Christian discipline and instruction Eph 6:4(GNB).

“Is there anything else to interpret other than that she is growing wings that must be clipped? As the chief disciplinarian in the house I shall not be disrespected.”

Have you considered her antics may be a cry for attention, your attention? How much time have you been spending with her lately? Remember this, my dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry. Human anger does not achieve God's righteous purpose Jas 1:19(GNB).

“I hardly have time these days. It is so difficult not to spill work into the home. I am too tired out when I return for children’s antics. Clearing my desk takes more these days... don’t look so triumphant; the extra cash comes in handy for the home: We have 2 nannies and recently employed private tutors for them.”

So where do you come in in her life? How do you monitor her progress? Keep well informed of the condition of your flocks and pay attention to your herds Prov 27:23(ISV) 

“Of course the teacher and nannies give regular reports. Why are you downcast?”

It seems the office gets the best of you and the home less of you.

“I only spend more time away that I make the money to give them greater comfort and security. Is something wrong with that? I can’t have my household substandard you know. Good people will have wealth to leave to their grandchildren, but the wealth of sinners will go to the righteous Prov 13:22(GNB). I need to leave a legacy.”

Is yours measured merely in silver and gold? Should not your extra money free you to be more available to the family? Gadgets can never make a home, love and care do. It's better to obey the LORD and have only a little, than to be very rich and terribly confused. A simple meal with love is better than a feast where there is hatred Prov 15:16, 17(CEV).  Your priority is reversed.

“So where have I missed it? I should bring presents home you must agree.”

The home needs your presence much more than the presents. You dump an exhausted irritable man for them to repair; and only for the office as far as they can see. Spend more time deliberately with them so as to mould them yourself even if it means delegating more of your office work to another. They deserve the best of you. For if a man does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church? 1Tm 3:5(ISV)