Wisdom in Our Relationships

I hope everyone had a Happy Mother's Day!

I hope you enjoyed your children. Whenever they present challenges, I try to remember what a blessing they are. One point I've been thinking about is how to relate to my children in more wise ways, and how to help them relate to others in more wise ways. God can use our children and our relationships with them to help us grow and become more like Jesus.

As I've been thinking about this, I came across some pointers in an e-mail from Dr. Rick Warren. These have helped me, and I hope they help you.

From these verses we learn six ways to be wise when we relate to others. If I am biblically wise...

1. I will not compromise my integrity (wisdom is pure). I'll be honest with you. I'll keep my promises and commitments to you.

2. I will not antagonize your anger (wisdom is peace-loving). I'll work at maintaining harmony. I won't push your hot buttons.

3. I will not minimize your feelings (wisdom is courteous). I may not feel as you do, but I won't ignore or ridicule how you feel.

4. I will not criticize your suggestions (wisdom allows discussion). I can disagree with you without being disagreeable.

5. I will not emphasize your mistakes (wisdom is full of mercy). Instead of rubbing it in, I'll rub it out.

6. I will not disguise my motivations (wisdom is wholehearted and sincere). I'll be authentic with you. I won't con or manipulate you.

I hope these pointers help you to grow and enjoy your children more, too!

I can't embed this video, but I hope it will bless your heart!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7W75O-x2C3s