Gleaning Wisdom

To glean is to collect bit by bit. What could be better to collect than wisdom? Bit by bit we first need to hear the truth, then have the opportunity to put that truth into action, and finally apply it consistently in thought, word, and deed.

Here are some nuggets of wisdom I have gleaned which have blessed me and I thought it would be a shame not to share them. Here goes:

When we allow our kids to experience “natural consequences” resist the urge to have a serves-you-right-attitude. Instead, be on their side and don't lecture them after they have suffered the natural consequence to their action. It won’t dull the learning curve for them, but it will enhance your relationship with them. (Gleaned from a National Center for Biblical Parenting seminar)

God, then husband, then kids. Not only is this the God-given order of priorities, it is just so practical. When the kids are grown and gone your husband will still be there (God willing), so make sure to continually nurture and prioritize your marital relationship. (Gleaned from the Bible and A Woman After God’s Own Heart)

Have a code name your children can use when they need your help and can’t come right out and say so. Example: If they normally call you “Mom” the code name can be “Mother.” If they need you to step in and be the bad guy in a situation they can say, “Mother, can Tom stay longer?” When you hear “Mother” you are alerted that something is up, you can say “no” and your child can save face. I think this would come in very handy with older kids, but even young kids could use it. I had a situation at the grocery store with Kyle where I stepped a few feet away from the cart and someone was too close for comfort to him, but he was in the cart and couldn’t get away. If he said, “Momma,” I might put him off with a, “Hang on,” or “I’ll be there in a second,” but if he said “Mother” I would know something was up and be immediately responsive. (Gleaned from a “seasoned” mom)

What is your husband’s favorite thing to do? (Hint: Most likely it starts with “s” and ends with “x” and has one letter in between.) What is your favorite thing to do? If it’s the same answer for both of you then great, skip to the next tidbit. Possibly it's not the same, in that case imagine that you could only do your favorite thing when your husband wanted to do it with you. Now imagine that your husband rolled his eyes and acted put upon when you asked him to do your favorite thing with you. Pray for a thankful heart that your husband wants to do his favorite thing only with you! (Gleaned from Is That All He Thinks About?)

Experience the blessing of serving together as a family. (Gleaned from multiple “seasoned” moms)

When our kids are grown would we rather they think back and say to themselves, “My Mom always kept the house really neat,” or “My Mom always took the time to sit and play with me.” (Gleaned from a “seasoned” mom)

Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. Proverbs 3:13-14