Discouragement and Potty Training

I’ve learned a lot about teaching a child to use the potty.

1. I need to have the right motives (not because I’m embarrassed or want to look good): Proverbs 29:25
2. I need to be patient and not angry (when it appears that my child doesn’t care) Galatians 5:22-23, I Corinthians 13
3. My last lesson has been understanding the need to be faithful: making doing right a priority (which prevents forgetfulness on my part. Trust me, I know this is the case for me.) Now I have a new lesson.

One of Bethel’s friends is learning to go potty too. And her mother related that this dear one asked her mommy to pray that she wouldn’t get discouraged. Now, Bethel isn’t resistant like her brother was. She just isn’t aware and has far more important details to think of than bother about potty. I also think she’s gotten discouraged, so yesterday I told her that Ella Grace was discouraged about going potty, but she prayed with her mommy and God helped her not to be discouraged. Then I asked her if she wanted to pray. No, she said.

We prayed anyway, and I prayed for myself as well. Be not weary in doing right, for you will reap eventually. This morning I wondered if Bethel understood what discouraged meant. I told her that discourage means we want to give up and stop trying. I think she understood this. And we prayed again. Do not be weary.

God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore will not we fear,though the earth be removed, and
though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
though the waters thereof roar and be troubled
though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.

Selah. Psalm 46:1-3