For 30 years Karen and I discipled Talia. And then Talia had Marston. At times as she was growing up, Talia would be self-absorbed. Over the years we would give her feedback. Sometimes we’d quote Scripture at her.
But nothing impacted her like having Marston.
When she had that baby, everything shifted. She lost the privilege of doing what she wanted when she wanted. About ten times a day he’d have a dirty diaper and everything came to a screeching halt until she changed the diaper.
She didn’t have any choice – Marston’s needs had to be prioritized above her own needs.
Sometimes we don’t need another Bible study. What we need is the opportunity to set aside our immaturity as we’re forced to walk in a new level of responsibility.
I love talking to young people about their issues. But sometimes I just need to stop and let the issue do its work in their lives. And sometimes if life seems to be hard, the messy problem is the very thing they need.
The best discipler is a dirty diaper.
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Seth Barnes
I'm motivated to join God in his global reclamation project. He's on the move, setting his sons and daughters free from their places of captivity. And he's partnering with those of us who have been freed to go and free others.
This blog is awesome. I just read it to everybody here. I’ve learned a lot through dirty diapers myself lately.
How true! My husband and I are the parents of 9 (and grandparents of 9 as well) and we’ve said for many years that the Lord has used them to help “chisel” us more into His image. 🙂 And that work continues…
YES, such good truth! Thanks for sharing Seth.
The voice of experience, huh?
All I learned about myself and God I learned in the arms of motherhood. I had never once in my life been selfless until those two captivators came along.
Truly, children are key. I once discovered a book on Christian psychology written in the 40’s. One of the chapters encouraged all to invest in the lives of children even if you have none of your own. How true his premise that children are the key to the Kingdom of Heaven.
On another note, Seth, do you mind sharing the story behind the pic with the tiger? I love it.
Blessings.
I was in Thailand and visited a place that had some tigers. This was a tame cat that rolled over and let me scratch his belly.