What if . . .

I can't lie. I'm getting scared. All the "what-if's" are creeping in. They're the same "what-if's" that many of you have asked me about. 

When you're a mom, you automatically feel innately responsible for the happiness of your children. It can't be helped. What if they don't like the food? What if they're home-sick? What if they don't like school? What if they cry at night? What if they get sick? What if they resent us for taking them to live in Africa? What if my kids aren't happy? 

I just brought this before the Lord in prayer, and he gently reminded my human, forgetful spirit, "the happiness of your children is not the primary goal". Actually, it's not a goal for them at all, nor is it for anyone. God's will for all of us is not our happiness, but our holiness.  The goal for this life isn't that we're "fat & happy". It's that we live to reflect the glory of God, and that we're continually being sanctified.  That's a fancy word for becoming more and more holy everyday; more like God; purified; free from sin. That's a job that only God can do. 

Does God love it when my children are happy? Absolutely. Is that His primary goal for them? Absolutely not. Right now, my children are made happy by candy, games, movies, playtime, a favorite meal, a good long visit to the park, a new puppy.  Does that help them become who God wants them to be? Does it give them peace? Does it keep them content?  Nope. Once we're home from the park, the happiness is gone. When the piece of candy is gone or the gum has lost it's flavor, the party's over.  Only God can give comfort, lasting peace, and take the troubles and hard things in life, and allow them to be a part of our sanctification process.  It's a beautiful thing if we let it be.

So I'm praying that God will help my mommy-heart to remember that it's ok if my kids aren't happy all the time. It's ok for them to dislike the food. It won't scar them for life if they have a tough time in school or if they miss their friends. God will take care of their hearts the same way he's taking care of mine, and they will ultimately be in His hands every moment, just like they are now. 

If you want to pray with me, I'd be grateful. Pray that God would give me wisdom, clarity and understanding to help my children process the changes that will come our way in the next few months. Only yesterday Kenya Joy broke down in tears telling me that she didn't want to go because she didn't want to leave her friends. I need wisdom in how to handle these moments . . . this is uncharted territory for me as a mom. What if . . . 

What if . . . God did what He always does . . . "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid". John 14:27