Going anywhere with three children is an adventure.

There is the volume problem.

Three kids must yell over each other to be heard. We still haven’t mastered not talking over each other and not interrupting. This often results in stares and undue attention especially when discussing bathroom habits. For some strange reason all children think bodily functions are funny.

There is also the activity issue.

My children are pretty well behaved, but kids are not made to sit still for long periods of time – especially when hungry or tired. So taking hungry children to restaurants and expecting a plate to stay on the table, cups to stay upright, or food to make it to their mouths may be asking too much.

Finally there is the comparison situation.

At some point when in public with my children the phrase, “it’s not fair,” will be used. Someone brought a toy from home and the others didn’t. Their hot dog is bigger or smaller or cooked better. It seems they search for reasons to believe they are being treated poorly. When I look to God for help, He gives me patience and teaches me to laugh instead of boil over in anger. He reminds me I am training them, it is a process, enjoy it. Then He nudges me in the ribs. I almost hear the words, “I can’t take you anywhere either.”

I have a volume problem – I don’t sit and listen to God. I talk the whole time. I state my case and make sure I am heard. I change the subject when He wants to talk about sin in my life. I start making potty jokes…He is training me.

I have an activity issue – I can’t sit still and be in awe of Him. My mind races with lists and what is next. God just wants me to wait and ask Him what He has for me to do today. He wants to direct my steps. Instead I fumble around in a hurry or being silly when God has specific plans for each day…He longs for me to be still and know Him.

I have a comparison situation – I compare my difficulties with other people’s triumphs. I wonder why things are easy for him or her without knowing a thing about their lives. I whine and complain that I didn’t get a certain gift or talent. Instead of using what God gave me to bring Him glory. He aches for me to realize He made me wonderfully for His pleasure and purpose. I am so glad God hasn’t given up on me yet. He is still training me and giving me the strength to deal with my issues.

Question:  Aren’t you glad God isn’t done with us yet?  You can leave a comment by clicking here.

Photo Credit:  pixelrn {Creative Commons}