Prayer Points: When the Whining is Like Nails on a Chalkboard

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 

–Philippians 4:12-13

Lord,

The whining is like nails on a chalkboard.  I can feel my shoulders tense up when it starts and nothing in me is thinking about the gospel.  As the broken record skips again I want to scream (and sometimes do), Make. It. Stop! 

I know this is “normal” and that every kid does it at some point, but in the midst of it, I feel my nerves begin to unravel.  It’s so non-sensical!  Why not just ASK for a drink?  Why not just do the 30 second task I’ve required and be done with it so we can move on and enjoy our day? 

How often am I guilty of “whining” to You before I’ve even asked for your help?  How often do I let you know my dissatisfaction with my circumstances?  (um, like whiny children!)

So I grasp for contentment and find it every time in the Cross.  I’m never going to jump for joy at the seeming unending screeches of unhappiness.  But I can pray for a content heart for that child.  You hear my prayers, right?  You’re hearing me now?  So I beg you for this child’s heart to be softened.  For his crabby disposition to be turned to a life that wants to serve you whole-heartedly.  I know there’s a chance I won’t see results today… or tomorrow… or on my timeline at all.  But I love my child enough to persevere. 

And I know you love him more. 

Fill this home with contentment.  Help me to apply the secret of being content:  That whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want, whether dealing with angelic children or difficult ones, I can do all things, through You who gives me strength.  Help me show my kids how that’s done.

So my defenses are down.  I need you.  You are the one who’s going to have to give me the strength to lovingly discipline this child without complaining and losing it myself.  You are going to have to change his heart and mine.  Help me deal with his grumbling and complaining without grumbling and complaining myself (Phil. 2:14). 

I can’t do this on my own, but I know the secret.  It’s YOU who gives me strength.  So can I have some of that strength now, please?  I am in desperate need of it because on my own, I point my kids away from you when they whine.  Help me show them you!

In the name of the One who gives me strength,

Amen.

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