"not today"

A few weeks ago, in a moment of desperation being a good counselor-mom, I set up star charts for the kids.  Each child has a behavior-specific goal, and when he or she earns a certain number of stars, they receive a reward to recognize effort in changing an undesirable behavior.

One of my children's goal is to not refuse to comply when he/she is told to do something.  We were in a very public place when the child was...not complying.

"[Child's Name], remember your goal.  Don't you want to earn a star?", I asked *calmly*, aware of my audience.

The child stopped, thought, and then responded.

"Not today."  And continued to not comply.

The child's desire to disobey not only outweighed a desire to please me, but also the incentive I had set up.  It completely frustrated me.  I was brainstorming ways I could get the child to change the behavior when I was reminded that my child has a free will, and it is a gift from God.  My child is not a remote-control car, that I can steer this way or that, accelerate or stop.  I can guide my child by setting an example, teaching - and rewards and consequences.  But ultimately my child makes his/her own choices.

How often is my response to God, "Not today"?

Spend time with Me.

"Not today."

Love your enemies.

"Not today."

Give generously.

"Not today."

Forgive.

"Not today."

Value without judgement.

"Not today."

Humble yourself.

"Not today."

Express thanksgiving.

"Not today."

Remember the least of these.

"Not today."

Trust Me.

"Not today."

And then I was reminded of my own words often used on my children - "Obeying is doing it right away, all the way...with a smile." : )