A time out is one way for kids to think about their behavior and how to change it.  We used to call it standing in the corner.  It would be great if adults could have time outs too – a little time to bathe in the calmness of Jesus’ presence – to get closer to Him and further away from the stresses of everyday living.

We often find it hard to pull ourselves from the busyness of life.  We lose track of what’s really important. But it’s necessary for our emotional, physical, mental and spiritual well being.  Having quiet moments with our Savior will give you a calmness, a release from the pressure of every day living and a host of other benefits.

God loves hearing from us, even if it’s a short conversation.  Find that special time to spend with Him.  Maybe you could take a “time out” when your child is having one.  Better yet, have one together.  You’ll both have an opportunity to cool off and think about what just happened and it will bring you together.  Love needs closeness, touch and tenderness to flourish.

With both of you in a time out, you’re showing that you love your child, in spite of their behavior and you’re sharing your love of God too.  Where two or more are gathered together, He will always be there.  Using that time as an opportunity to teach is so much better than using it as an escape from their annoying behavior.

The years we have with our little ones is really quite short.  We need to use every minute to expose them to the love of God, prayer and their relationship with the Creator of all things.

Maybe its time for a time out!