Guiding vs. Parenting

Last night my oldest daughter and I sort of got into a discussion that left me feeling like she still didn't quite understand where I was coming from.  I walked out of the room leaving it to God after I spoke to her words from my heart through Christ.

She is 17 and will be 18 in September.  As a mom I want to protect her and shield her from the cruel things in this world.  Last night I felt like I took a turn from "parenting" to "guiding"  The difference being that when our children are younger we sort of can "control" and protect better than when they get older and think they are ready for the world.

I have realized that when I speak to my daughter now I can only suggest, imply, influence, point out what I know would be the better option or choice and let her decide for herself.....to guide her.  Letting go and speaking truth into there life and leaving her in God's hands is not and will not be easy for me to do.  That is where my faith comes in.....and knowing God and having a relationship with Him.  He is raising my daughter and she and I can only follow Him in His plan for her....in her everyday dealings with life as a young beautiful inside and out young woman growing in her place in this world.

I love my daughter (my 3 children) so very much and I know that I can not guide them out into this world without the Lord.  So very thankful for knowing that, it lightens the load and puts the burden on the shoulders of the one who can handle it all for His children.

I also know that the only thing I can do to lean on the Lord through all of what will come into the life of my daughter is to pray.  Pray for her daily.  Giving her over and over back to the Lord.

Let her walk insecurity of Your assigned worth to her.  Give her a strong work ethic and health to accomplish all her tasks.  Give her a heart that desires to extend her hand to those in need.  Protect her to the right husband, a man of respect and godly honor.  And let her be a woman of joy and laughter whose Christ-centered character is what makes her most beautiful.  (Proverbs 31)

Lord, continue to give me the strength, wisdom and guidance for me to love and guide my daughter into this world.  Amen