Living a life that Matters

It is during times like these that I take notice that God is watching over me and my family. My kids and I have been through a lot. I remember telling them six years ago that we were going to be a family that bonds together and not run from our problems. The boys and I had a family talk a month ago in which all three of us broke down and let out all our hurt and pain. My oldest son in particular was going through many struggles of his own and was really hurting. He has had relationship issues and addiction issues with online gaming for some time. He at one point threatened to end his life over being grounded from video games. It hasn’t been easy as a father watching my own son go through these hard times. But lately he has been taking notice of me and how I handle my own trials. He has been curious as to how I have been able to maintain a level of peace and where I draw my strength from during the most difficult of circumstances. Even though I know he doesn’t quite get it, I tell him because of my faith and that I trust in God in all things to restore. I think my confidence in Christ is starting to wear on him as lately I’ve noticed that God is starting to work in him. He has been grounded from video games again lately because of bad grades. But this week he decided to sell his xbox – his prized possession. He told me he is tired of his addictions and tired of not having a life because of it. I’ve also noticed lately he has wanted to go to his church small group and he has been spending time with his small group leader and his friends. His mother and I have been getting along great lately and she even has been letting him go to group on her nights (which she was against for some time). I took my boys to church on Sunday and when I got up to take communion, I noticed my son followed me. He probably doesn’t quite get what it is all about, but I am guessing he was wanting to be a part of what I got going on. The people at church have noticed a change in him as well since the last time he went. You know, I’m just thankful for moments like this that I can reflect on when times look so bleak for me. I remember a couple of years ago breaking down in prayer to God in the middle of a dark living room for my boys because of where they were at in life and the challenges of being a single dad. Yet God gave me a level of patience and grace with them to stick with them despite where they were in their life at that time. I don’t give up on people and I thank God for that gift. I am blessed to have this bond with my family and I praise God for his blessings and how he watches over us despite the difficult trials we endure. It’s also been a joy to watch my kids grow into the men God is wanting them to be.

God has us on an amazing journey together!