Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Sibling Rivalry

It's possible that I'm not the only mom that has a problem with sibling rivalry, right? It seems that Homeschooling can even add to this considering the kids are together all day, every day. I have always wanted my kids to be close together, and it concerned me that I recently witnessed more fighting than normal.

I noticed that the most difficult situation was (and is) the relationship between my oldest (8) and my youngest (3) boys. I sat down with my oldest in attempt to get to the heart issue and find out why he is having such a hard time loving his little brother. It's rare that I see this behavior toward his sister or other brother, so I'm very curious as to why he chooses such harsh attitudes towards the youngest.

With that said, I began praying that the Lord would show me how to handle this and reveal to me the heart issue related to this behavior.  One day, a little before Easter, I was reading John 13:1-17 and the Lord confirmed that He wanted us to wash each other's feet. What a place of humility for all of us! Not only to do the washing, but to receive it as well. I felt that my oldest was to wash the feet of my youngest. However, I wasn't sure how he would handle this. 


Luigi (oldest) washing  Yoshi's (youngest) Feet. :)

Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” John 13:7




I was surprised that not only was my son not opposed to washing his feet, but I saw compassion toward his brother while he did it. I wish I could say that at this moment I understand the conflicts between these two,  and that I had great answers on how to solve it. Yet the truth is...I don't. I DO however have John 13:7 on which to stand. Also, I can trust that God sees what I don't see, and knows exactly what the future is for these two! I pray that God would create a strong bond between the two of them that is unbreakable. 

Mario washing Princess Peach's Feet :) 


Daddy helping Princess Peach wash Luigi's feet :)



There was so much love and compassion as we humbled ourselves to serve the ones that we tend to take so easily for granted. I'm certain that this is something we will do again as a reminder of what it means to love and serve each other as we should. I seriously wish I had all the answers to fix this sibling rivalry thing, but for now I'm going to have to trust the Lord in giving me each step. 

Do you deal with Sibling Rivalry? If so, Do you have certain ways you handle it? Has the Lord shown you specific things for your family? I would love to hear your thoughts on this, I'm all open to great ideas!! :)




5 comments:

  1. Shelley - I was so moved to see your precious children ministering to each other. Thank you for sharing this special time with us.

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  2. It does my heart good to see how sensitive you are to the Holy Spirit in raising "our" children to show each other Godly love! I experienced a foot washing service and it is very humbling. Unfortunately, I know adults who struggle with sibling rivalry and do not show one another love. Thanks for being you!

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  3. Yes, I meant to say "our" children. :) ~Aunt Donna~

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  4. So sweet!! You're children are precious! I applaud you for investing into your children's lives by teaching them about God and teaching them to love one another as Christ loves them. You are an amazing mother! I am praying you will see the fruit of the things you've sown into them! Blessings!!

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