Two Year Olds,Tantrums and Patience
“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Proverbs 14-29
It’s no secret that two year olds can test your patience. That is why this stage is commonly referred to as, “the terrible twos.” I’ve also heard it referred to as “the terrific twos.” Whether terrible or terrific, one thing is for sure, raising a two year old requires a lot of patience. It is during this stage, children are constantly testing boundaries, desire to be independent and often throw temper tantrums, when they do not get what they want.
Our youngest daughter, Kellie, is definitely fitting the two year old bill. In the past week alone, she has had several meltdowns and thrown at least three temper tantrums. I don’t know, who’s more frustrated, me or her. Let’s just say both of us have had to take time outs from each other. I am truly learning the importance of patience.
Before having children, I was very impatient. Even now, I struggle with being patient but I’ve come a long way. Although, I’ve been aware of my tendency to be impatient for quite some time, I’ve never prayed for patience. The bible clearly states, “tribulation worketh patience,” Romans 5:3. Somehow, I thought by not praying for patience, I could skip the whole tribulation thing. It wasn’t that I didn’t want more patience. Believe me; I did! I simply didn’t want to go through the process required to obtain it. I mean, who likes tribulation?
The fact is my heaven Father knew I needed more patience. He has promised to supply all my needs (Philippians 4:19). He was going to give me patience, regardless of whether or not I prayed for it. All born again believers need patience. When allowed to penetrate our hearts, patience will strengthen our faith and cause us to become mature Christians. “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing,” James 1:4.
Although, there are days that are very challenging, I believe God is using Kellie, as well as my other children, to teach me patience. He is teaching me to be gentle and remain firm. He is teaching me to be merciful, faithful and love unconditionally. He is showing me the areas of immaturity in my life by allowing me to see myself in my children. I’m gaining so much wisdom through raising my children. Therefore, I am determined to allow patience to thoroughly do a work in me because it is my heart’s desire to grow in Christ.
Until next Wednesday……“In all your ways acknowledge God and he will direct your path.” – Proverbs 3:6
Do you ever struggle with patience?
