I Was Right!

by Jenny Sergio

Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught…to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

One summer day our family was outside tending to the garden when a discussion turned into an argument between my then 11 year old son and me. I was intently making my point, knowing I was right, when my husband stepped in and said, “That’s enough!” I was ticked. I am the mother! I walked away trying to regain my composure, when in my spirit I heard, “You do not have to prove you’re right. Give it up!” When I accepted Christ I accepted all of Him in exchange for the rights to my life. He has promised me eternal life, an abundant life, joy, peace patience, gentleness, meekness and self-control and I am to give Him my rights. Days later I swallowed my pride and asked my son to forgive me for my selfishness and need to be proven right. By God’s grace I was able to heal that relationship and he has developed into a respectful, joyous teenager.

Then the other day my husband and I were preparing to travel to an event. I reminded him of how he handled something the last time we traveled, saying, “You forget things sometimes.” With which he replied, “and you do a good job of reminding me.” Gulp! I learned to respect my husband’s wisdom and to daily surrender my rights to God. It makes for a peaceful home!

Prayer: Thank You, Lord for all You have given me. Today and everyday I give You all my rights and expectations and humbly ask You to replace them with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, meekness, and self-control. Amen