No Greater Grief and Joy Have I

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.3 John 1:4 How often in my own parental joys and sorrowsI think of my patient Heavenly Father, where I, his willful childneed his faithful goodness, mercy, rebuke and forgiveness! No greater grief has a (Christian) parent than watching a precious child choose the hardroad of rebellion ,(where we all once were, but by the grace of God have been saved!)No greater joy has the same parent when watching a child choose the hard road of repentance, of truth, obedience and faithfulness! All that I bring to TheeIs but what you bestowNothing have I save love’s replyEach gifted breath will owe Forbid that I betrayMy Lord and King of kingsAs Want uncouth disdains God’s truthTo covet carnal things Lord, purge all boast but One;The faith that makes me wholeThrough Jesus Christ who sacrificedHis life to save my soul No greater joy have IThan Truth that sets us freeWith holy awe to keep the lawOf love’s humility/of perfect liberty No greater grief have IThan to bear witness toEmboldened hard, cold disregardMy faithful God, to You Lord, hear my heartful prayerWhere joy and grief travailTo praise and plead and trust each needTo love that will not fail © Janet Martin Dear praying parent! Keep on keeping on! Psalm 5:3&11-12In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;in the morning I lay my requests before youand wait expectantly.... But let all who take refuge in you be glad;let them ever sing for joy.Spread your protection over them,that those who love your name may rejoice in you. 12 Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous;you surround them with your favor as with a shield.