verse out of context but still so good

Know well the condition of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds; Proverbs 27:23

I looked at that verse carefully today. I thought it had some really good application for me. My kids might feel bad if they read the comparison I am about to make but it's nothing personal :)

If it was so important in Bible days to really know the condition of your flocks and if one needed to be sure to pay attention to their herds- could I be safe to assume that it is even more important to know the condition of and pay attention to your children? I am amazed at how many parents don't have a clue as to what their kids are doing, watching, looking at, listening to, hanging out with, talking about..... It may be easy for me to say that I am not among those who are clueless. But really there is SO MUCH to our kids and to their hearts. The only way I will know their true condition is to spend time paying attention to them AND praying for discernment and that God would reveal to me what needs to be revealed. I can take for granted that if my kids are going to church with us, obeying the rules, "talking the talk" etc. they are okay.

How can I help and guide my children if I don't know what they need help and guidance with. I have a feeling that one of my children struggles with loneliness. As I pay attention I see that one might have a root of bitterness building. Another could be dealing with anger issues while even the littlest may be really enjoying a totally self-centered life.

On their own, these issues won't just go away. I first need to know what the problem is- or at least be able to have a good guess. I then need to PRAY PRAY PRAY. I can then use all sorts of ways to show my child love and support as I help them deal with their struggles. We all struggle. Haven't we always? Cant' we look back at even our childhood and "blame" something that is an issue for us now on what happened then?

I want to be one to know and pay attention to my kids in every way. I want them to know that even if I can't solve their problems, I can direct them to the One who can.

It would be so easy to justify that if I keep my kids clean, fed, educated, and out of most kinds of trouble that whatever happens happens. I'm sorry but I have higher hopes. I want them all to know happy, fulfilled, purposeful, peaceful, joyful and every other good kind of "ful" life! And, I don't think that is being silly. God promises a life like that. Not free of trouble or sadness. But one that "overcomes" and is filled with real, exciting, meaningful life all along the way!

So, if I have to compare my kids to livestock....well, lets just say I am challenged to pay attention. :) I love them all so much it is overwhelming sometimes.

I have repeatedly used the word "I" in this post. But I have an amazing husband who feels the exact same way. We work together raising our children and he is SO actively involved in paying attention, praying and then guiding. I am so thankful for him because I really don't think I could do it without him.

Well, tomorrow the oldest member of our flock turns 15 and there are preparations to be made. So, until tomorrow..... :)