The "hot seat"

When it seems as though our family feels a little “disjointed”, or when we find ourselves correcting more than encouraging or enjoying our children, the Lord leads my husband to have a “hot seat” time.

Last night was one of these sessions.

Each child in turn was put in my rocker as Daddy and I took turns ministering. First, Daddy looked deeply into the child’s eyes, spoke words of affirmation and encouragement, then prayed over him/her. Then it was my time. We started with the youngest, then moved to the oldest. Note: we do not use this as a lecture/counseling/correction time—only positive comments/prayers are offered.

After every child present had been blessed, Daddy and I sat on the ground holding hands, and each child in turn was given the opportunity to speak positive things over us and pray.

It was such a blessed time—can anyone say “positive vibes”?

Seriously, it gave everyone an opportunity to express love and appreciation, sometimes things that may have never been spoken out loud but desperately needed to be expressed came out, and there was emotion and a deep sense of God’s Holy Spirit in that room.

At other times each sibling in turn has spoken over and prayed for each other—this has also been a great way to break through some crusty personality conflicts where resentment or misunderstandings had become roadblocks.

It takes emotional energy for such a session, and it may seem at first as though it will be tough, but it is such a wonderful way to get back on track with each other—it makes you breathe a sigh of great relief and puts you at peace.

If you have an hour or two in your schedule this week, give it a try. I guarantee a blessing will result!