Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4

Dear Lord,
It’s been said that “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” I ask for Your help to keep me from exasperating my children as I attempt to love them and help them. I pray that You would give me wisdom and discernment in all my dealings with them.

I know that the time I have to influence them isn’t as much as I want it to be. You know that I’m doing my best, but I want to make sure that I’m not accidentally pushing them away as I try to lead them on a better path.

Don’t let me use this as an excuse to not engage with them, either, Lord! Help me to be present and mindful of how what I am saying and doing is affecting them. Help me know when to press in and when to hold back.

Ecclesiastes says that there’s a time for everything under the sun, but You are the One who knows best when it is “A time to be silent and a time to speak… a time for war and a time for peace.” Please fill me with Your wisdom so that I know when it is time for these things in my home as well.

In Jesus name, Amen.