The First Year: Build a Support System
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
“This is not good!” Moses’ father-in-law exclaimed. “You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself."
Exodus 18:17-18 NLT; suggested reading, Exodus 18:13-23
Today's Thought
Moses was trying to do it all. Serve as judge for all Israel. He would listen to disputes for exhausting hours on end. And the people had to wait and wait for their turn to come, if it ever did. When Moses' father-in-law saw what was happening, he said, "This is not good!" He advised Moses to organize and delegate. Moses complied. He was no longer exhausted and everyone was better served.
We often resist asking other people to help us, but sometimes we need help. Caring for our baby is one of those times. We need a support system as we begin the challenge of parenting and guiding a new life into responsible adulthood.
Of course, the Holy Spirit is our primary source of help and support. But God often helps us through other people. Parents, grandparents, other relatives, godly friends, pastors.
Consider this …
Don't just wait for help to come to you. Actively search out people who will encourage and support you during this time. It takes active planning to avoid becoming isolated and overwhelmed. Look within your church. Check out parent support groups. Ask your doctor and pastor for other possible sources of support.
When someone offers to help, be specific about your needs. You surely need their prayers. Maybe some temporary help with your older children . . . or with meals . . . or laundry. Someone willing to just sit down with you for a cup of coffee and a friendly chat. Someone to give you a break two or three hours a week. And you may need counsel from those more experienced than you. Offer them the blessing of being able to help you!
Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success. Proverbs 15:22 NLT
Prayer
Father, I realize I can't do all this alone. I'm feeling rather overwhelmed. Help me be wise and bold in finding help. Some people have even offered their assistance. Show me how to put all this together. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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©Living Free 2018. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to [email protected]
