As I was washing dishes today, I was listening to some of the sounds coming from a few rooms over where my hubby was talking to our daughter.  She refused to share her football with her brother when her Dad asked her to.

I reached for another cup, and as the suds washed over my hands I considered a crucial element of discipline that I often fail to implement.

I forget to invite God into the discipline process.

Who changes hearts?

Not me, though I may want to through the force of my will.

To foster peace and love between my children, I need God’s help through the Holy Spirit.

He can work in my children in ways that I cannot.  And I realized that there was more that I could do to fully cooperate with the work of God- to invite Him to be a more integral part of this process.

Do you pray with your children when you discipline them?

I do, sometimes, but I felt the Lord saying- include me in everything.  That’s how your children will know how important I am to you.

I must seek Him in all things- and be open about it.  Not just praying by myself or with my hubby- but also praying with them right then- in the moment.

Inviting them to seek God to help them to be more loving toward each other.

Lord, help me remember to seek you in all things and to invite you into all things.  I want to call on your transforming power in moments of discipline.  You change hearts and transform us by the renewing of our minds.  O God, let my children see and know that you hold my heart.  That I live out the words that I say and teach- Pray without Ceasing.  In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His Purpose.  All glory and honor is yours, both now and forever.  In Jesus Name, Amen.