Want It

⁵ Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,

“Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you.”

Lately my 18 month old Olivia has been using the phrase, "Want it," or "Want that," which is then followed by a sweep of her hand as she gestures in some general direction of her choosing.  Keep in mind that she is not necessarily pointing at some toy or object that she specifically wants...no, instead she is letting her audience know that she wants something, and evidenced by her whiny tone, she wants it now.

Last month as we were home visiting my parents for Christmas, my dad (a retired pastor) turned Olivia into a Bible lesson.  Oftentimes we are not content with what we have and believe that we need more of this or that.  As a Christian parent, I want Olivia to know and feel content.  In a world that encourages kids to want and parents to spend, sometimes it is hard to stand firm in the boat of contentment.  How much do you give children, and how do you help them appreciate all that is given to them?

For me, I believe that much of that begins with the example set by parents.  Modeling a spirit of peace and contentment that is focused on others and the joy of giving can be a great start, and managing the household income in a way that is God-pleasing is of equal importance.  Setting boundaries and expectations for trips before heading to the store can help children understand that not every excursion ends with a treat or a toy.

Dear Jesus,

Being a parent in a world of want can be hard.  Partner with us as we work to parent your children, and help us model a spirit of contentment for them.  Thank you for all that you provide to us and for the gift of eternal life.

Amen