This word is submitted by Erma Kummerer (ErmWorm@aol.com)
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[[Moderator's note.. this is more of an encouragement than a prophetic word, but it is God speaking directly to Erma. We included this because what God said to her is very powerful, and will be an encouragement for those who find themselves struggling with unsaved children who make "bad" decisions.]]
Failure as a parent
Last night as I was in bed talking to the Lord about several issues, I began really "barking" at Him about His promises for my children (adult children). I was reciting back to Him all the promises that I could remember and I was telling Him how unfair it is that my children aren't living for Him....etc. etc. I made mention, of course, :) that I had been as good of an example to them as I knew how to be and I have taught them and prayed with them and for them and that they gave their hearts to Him at a young age... Well, you get the idea. Bottom line is that I felt like a failure as a mom and I just feel like the whole thing is UNFAIR.
Our Father very quietly said, "Am I a failure as a parent"? YIKES. I knew what He meant right away. He taught me, encouraged me etc. etc. even when I was messing up in my life. Heck, I still mess up with regularity!! He was gently reinforcing in me the idea that my children have their own free will to accept or reject Him. I did what I was supposed to do in as good a fashion as I know how and I prayed for Him to fill in the parts where I let Him and my children down. It was encouraging to me and sort of putting me in my place at the same time. He's rather good at doing that.
Sincerely,
Erma