Careful Attention

Proverbs 27:23-24
Be sure you know the condition of your flocks,
give careful attention to your herds;
for riches do not endure forever,
and a crown is not secure for all generations.

How are your flocks doing? Mine is getting ready to head back to school after a nice 2 week break. When I read this verse, I was encouraged, especially about the riches part. Good thing they don't last forever, especially when you don't have much to begin with!

The phrase "careful attention" is what got my attention. Some days I tend to just survive. Other days I savor. Some days I am so focused on the to-do list that I forget the 'for-who' list. Am I paying careful attention to my flock? Do I pray over them? Do I take them to the ultimate Shepherd? Do I know the condition of their hearts?

What a sweet reminder of the importance of my role as a mother. I don't need to worry or fret over their earthly riches. Those will all pass away. I could give each of my children a million dollars (theoretically, of course) today and there are no promises of what it would turn into or be reduced to in 30 years.

On the other hand, I can give them a solid foundation: A sense of self worth built on the love of Christ which will last forever. I want to make sure that I am paying careful attention to my little flock. I want to know the condition of their hearts. I want to help guide them to the arms of Jesus ... every single day.