When you apologize to your child

Parents are called to train children with intention.

Proverbs 22:6

When you apologize to your child. There is usually more happening here than the obvious problem. There is no virtue in denial, but there is also no freedom in self-definition by circumstance. Keep the event in its proper place: part of your story, not the source of your identity. Your love for your child is real, but love does not give you control over every outcome. Entrust your child to God where your influence stops and your anxiety wants to take over. Stop presenting God with the polished summary. Let Him meet you at the level where the real struggle is happening.

What personal story has grown around the facts of the situation? Which sentence needs to lose your agreement?

Jesus Christ, I place both the clear part and the confusing part before You. Give me a clear response that reflects Your truth rather than my panic. Amen.