Stubborn or Determined?

Have you ever thought about how someone's weakness can also be a strength? I have a boy in my house who is stubborn. I've been trying today to see the positive attributes that come along with being stubborn.

Perhaps a better word for stubborn is determined?

* When this boy decides to learn something new, there is NOTHING that can stop him. It doesn't matter what others think. It doesn't matter if he gets hurt. Nothing matters except for accomplishing a goal he has set for himself. For example, he learned to crawl at 6 months and walk at 9 1/2 months. Nothing would stop him. When he decided to learn to ride his bike without training wheels, he was determined to do it no matter how many times he fell. I could go on and on listing examples... snapping, diving, handstands, etc.  In his adulthood, I am hoping and praying this trait really serves him well! I can't wait to see how God will use this God-given trait of determination.

* Unfortunately, when he decides he doesn't want to do something, that strength can become a weakness. For example, since we started back up with school he has refused to do his school work nearly every day.  Sometimes the stand off only lasts until 2pm and then he kicks into gear. Other days like today, he has been refusing since 8:30 this morning and is just beginning to do his work thinking he will get to go outside in the snow. (Ummm... sorry buddy, it's almost 6:00 and it's too dark.) I can't believe he has held out this long. It's an obedience issue that we are working on with appropriate consequences. (And don't worry, he eventually does his work even if it takes until bedtime.) However, it is so hard to see him struggling internally with whether to "give in" or stand firm in his stubbornness. And ultimately, I believe that this sin of disobedience strains his relationship with God until he obeys and repents. It's not so great on our relationship either!

Oh Lord, I pray that he would grow to love You and be determined to walk closely with you and turn from his sin and disobedience. Help me to be slow to anger and abounding in love!