So many tears, so much crying… When will it stop? Waiting for a prodigal to return to righteous living is one of the most gut-wrenching, soul-bending experiences a parent can face. How does one standby and watch their grown child slide down a dark, slippery slope with nothing to stop them?
Here are some ideas from a fellow traveler on this journey. I am not a counselor or a professional, so please don’t take it as such. But these things have helped me tremendously, and maybe they will help you on the road.
First, if you are not in community with a church and have a small group of believers with whom you regularly fellowship, find one. They will lift you up and support and pray for you when you cannot pray for yourself. Some of them will have already been on this road and can walk along side you more personally.
Second, get a good counselor. This issue is too big for your friends to guide you through alone. Get trained help, even when you get to a place where you don’t need them regularly.
Third, find a few friends who will do this with you: each morning exchange a text message with three things you are grateful for. It can be something deep and spiritual or something as simple as coffee. The point is changing the focus to being grateful. This will change your perspective.
Fourth, find a quiet time journal that helps you focus during your quiet time with God each morning. One I like is from CultivateWhatMatters.com. Their Write The Word journal leaves space for writing what you are grateful for as well as guided journaling of God’s Word and free space to write what is on your mind.
Fifth, do not neglect your rituals. Make your bed. Wash your face. Fix your hair. Get some exercise. Show up for yourself if for no one else. Your feelings might try to have you stay in bed with the covers pulled over your head, but don’t give in to the feelings! Go with the rituals. You are not defeated but are victorious through Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:37)
This has not been a typical, read it at a stoplight length devo but one that has been in the making for some time. Hang in there. Joy is coming.
“Those who sow in tears shall reap in joyful shouting.” Psalm 126:5
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Stoplight Devotionals 