Patience running low in homeschool

On my heart today. 

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.  That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weakness, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.  For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

I’d like to think I’m a patient person.  I hold it together pretty well.  But I also loose my cool quicker than I should, a lot more than a should, over sillier things than I should.  People don’t think of that when they say, “wow, you must have a lot of patience to homeschool!”  No.  No, I really don’t.  But God does. 

And after a full day of homeschooling (which is about 3-4 hours), I’m depleted.  Mentally and emotionally.  I’m weak.  Homeschooling is no joke…I pour everything I have into my 4 children, every bit of empathy, understanding, wisdom, and patience I can muster, and I’m left needing to fill my cup.  Every. Single. Day.  And I often think nobody notices.  But God does.

That’s the glorious thing about knowing Christ.  Finding joy in it all.  Lots, and lots of of joy 😊  Because I can turn to the One who is my strength!  The One who walks with me (actually, carries me), and never leaves me nor forsakes me.  Who whispers in my heart “love them…” when all I really want to do is justify my anger.  The One who teaches me to forgive, so I can teach my little ones to forgive as well.  I can turn to the One who helps me remember the sweet teachable moments, and the hugs and cuddles I wouldn’t trade for anything.  The One who I see in the eyes, smiles and laughter of my sweet children.  Whose Word reminds me that I am equipped to fulfill His will every day.  Because it is He who reminds me of the grace and mercy given each new day.

“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

Thank you, Jesus.

Do not be consumed by emotions or lost patience.  It’s in our weakness when we finally do what God has been waiting for us to do…turn to Him.