Ask first

Having children is one of the most eye-opening spiritual experiences. At least for me it is. Every time I say something to my children I wonder, has God ever tried to tell me that? Like times when I tell them to "be patient", I'm sure He has tried to tell me that or "be quiet", if you know me, you know He has said that plenty of times but lately I have been telling my daughter, "don't help yourself, ask first" and it struck me that maybe the Lord has tried to tell me this one and I haven't listened. I will be the first to admit that finances are my biggest struggle. I have plenty of excuses that go something like this...I grew up in the 80s (the material girl age), I was the baby of the family (I usually got what I wanted) and I have always tried to "show" love for my family by buying the things they want. My husband was the baby too so he isn't much help. We both have to fight the "I want it and I want it now" mentality. So, as I said to my daughter for what seemed like the 10th time in a week yesterday that she had to ask 1st before helping herself to the goodies, I felt that God was saying the same thing to me. I wondered how many purchases we had made without consulting Him and I decided it was most of them. I wish I could say that this will be an easy challenge for me but I have a feeling that just like any other bad habit this too is going to be a hard one to break. So, pray for me, I want to give God glory in everything I do, including the decisions to buy things, things that I need or just want.