Thankful Thursday: His Fingerprints

"Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome..."  Nehemiah 4:14

It's been VBS week at our church. I can see God's fingerprints everywhere.  The Lord is great and awesome!  Here's just a few things I'm thankful for today.

• We had 60+ different adults and youth help out this week.  It's a great blessing watch a church in action and work together as a team.  I'm so proud of everyone!

• Watching many of our youth, who have grown up attending VBS, now being ministers themselves...leading the music, helping in classes, leading crews of kids.  It's an amazing sight to behold! 2 of the teenage girls even brought me a coffee as a sweet surprise.  It blessed my socks off.

• I appreciate so much my family getting involved and helping out.  Not just cause I'm the "director" but because they too love watching kids come to know Jesus.

• A friend made my family dinner on our 2nd night of VBS...I have to tell you that is a huge blessing during a busy time.

• My family had a safe and fun trip to see Grammy & Papa.  I was bummed to miss out but I rejoice that they were so blessed by their time with them.  While everyone was away I was able to get ahead on my VBS work and so this has been the "easiest" VBS for me in some regards. 

• Last night some children accepted Jesus as their Savior.  It was a delight to watch one of our youth help a little boy make that decision for himself.  God is rejoicing in another heart that belongs to Him!

• Tonight we give Bibles away to kids who don't have one of their own.  I think that this is my favorite part of the week. I love sharing with others one of my favorite things!

The list is not finished in regards to all the ways God was great and awesome this week.  Tonight is our last night of VBS.  I will never fully see all the ways in which He was moving and working.  Seeds were planted in lots of little hearts, and I pray that even among our workers, God was speaking.

May His fingerprints be seen for days and years to come and be a permanent mark on people's lives.

Thank you, Lord, for your visible, powerful, life-giving, presence in Vacation Bible School this week.  My heart rejoices in your awesomeness all over the place.  Thank you for providing everything that was needed this week...the workers, the kids and even the time to get everything done.  I pray that you continue to soften hearts and move among all of those present tonight at VBS, and may your saving grace be shared in a powerful, yet simple and profound way.  You are great and awesome and you are the song of my heart.  May that be true of all who hear your name tonight too.

From Head to Toe

My ball player...2011

Dear Father God, I pray for my son (and daughter) from head to toe:

 
His Head...That he will look to YOU as Lord of his life. (1 Corinthians 11:13) 

His Mind...That he will have the mind of Christ and think as the Holy Spirit would lead him and not the flesh. (I Corinthians 2:16) 

His Eyes...That YOU will keep his eyes from temptation and that he will turn his eyes from sin.  (Matthew 6:13, Mark 9:47) 

His Ears...That he will hear YOUR still small voice instructing him.  (1 Kings 19:12, Psalm 32:8) 

His Mouth...That his words would be pleasing to YOU. (Proverbs 19:14) 

His Neck...That he will humble himself before YOU and be strong, courageous, and careful to do everything written in YOUR Word so that he will be prosperous and successful. (James 4:10, Joshua 1:8-9) 

His Heart...That he will love and trust YOU with his whole heart.  (Deuteronomy 6:5, Proverbs 3:5) 

His Arms...That YOU will be his strength.  (Psalm 73:26) 

His Hands...That he will enjoy the work of his hands and see it as a gift from YOU.  (Ecclesiastes 3:13, 5:19) 

His Feet...That YOU will order his steps and that he will walk in YOUR truth.  (Proverbs 4:25, Psalm 26:3)

A Proud Moment

"Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked."  Psalm 97:10

I'm so proud of my boy.  I love the glimpses I get to see of him turning into a strong and wise young man.

Last week, Kyle was out of town with his baseball team, and in some of his free time he and one of his friends went to browse in a bookstore close by.  While perusing through the magazines they caught sight of another young boy about their age sifting through the "bad" magazine section, unwrapping them, taking a look, and then stuffing them into his jacket when he thought no one was looking.

As this young man left, Kyle and his friend decided to follow him and after the boy exited the store, they told a store clerk what they had seen.  Seconds later, from what I understand, the boy was caught and inside his jacket were many magazines he had tried to swipe.

Yeah Kyle!

One, I'm thankful that my boy wasn't looking at the magazines in that section.

Two, I'm proud of his courage and choice to do the right thing and turn the boy in.

I pray that Kyle always "hates what is evil and clings to what is good" and right.  This was a good start!

Lord, I love the moments where I see our children making good choices.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always hates what is evil and clings to what is good.  May your Holy Spirit always teach them to do your will and lead them on level ground, reminding them of everything you have said.  Help Alyssa and Kyle to not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of their mind. Then they will be able to test and approve what your will is—your good, pleasing and perfect will.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle reflect you in all that they say and do.  Thank you, dear Jesus, for the little moments where I can be proud of who my children are becoming!

Things Never Imagined

"If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ."  1 Peter 4:11

 Lyss helping at VBS last summer.

Last night VBS started...whew.  I love how God pulls this week together.

Once upon a time...
I never imagined I'd direct a VBS.
I never considered teaching a women's Bible study.
I freaked at the thought of talking in front of anyone anywhere.

There were a lot of things I never knew I could do.
There were even a lot of things I decided I'd never even try.

However, God had something else in mind for my life.

I'm thankful, that He saw something different for me than I saw for myself.
I'm thankful that He opened my eyes to His power in my life.

I know that there are a lot of things that Alyssa and Kyle think
     they will never do too.
Or things that they think they can't do.

However, God has something in mind for their lives.

He will be transforming them from the inside out.
He will open their eyes to His power that lives within them.
He will grow and develop gifts and talents in them
     that they don't even know they have.

I can't wait to see what kind of things they will do with their life...
Things never imagined.

Lord, thank you for who you made Alyssa and Kyle to be, and what they will become with your transforming power working in their lives.  They will serve you with the strength you provide them.  We are all given different gifts to use for your purposes and glory.  All the plans you have for them will succeed if they keep their eyes fixed on you.  Lord, teach them that they can do all things through your strength.  They will do things they've never imagined.  Oh the joy they will find in following you, dear Jesus, and giving their lives wholly to you. 

Salvation Saturday: You Invite Me In

“But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior” Titus 3:4-6

I used this in a blog a while ago, but I was awakened by this song yesterday morning, and every time I hear it I am reminded of those in my life that I long to know the Lord.  I just had to use it again today.  I am touched every time by the words. 

Every Saturday for almost two years I have prayed for Alyssa and Kyle's salvation and walk with Christ.  I know that they've asked Him into their hearts, but I pray that they choose to follow Him all the days of their lives.

YOU INVITE ME IN

by Meredith Andrews

I've been searching,

Wandering and hurting

Ashamed of the shape I'm in

Afraid you'll see who I really am

CHORUS

You invite me in

Doesn't matter where I've been

Your arms are open wide

There's nothing left to hid

You invite me in

Doesn't matter where I've been

Your arms are open wide

Pulling me to Your side

How can this be

Love so unfailing

Reached down and lifted me

From ashes to beauty

CHORUS

I am walking away

From the life I once knew

And running to Your

Grace that covers my shame

Again and again

I find my life in you

Lord, you so loved my precious children, Alyssa and Kyle, that you gave your one and only Son for them, so that if they believe in You, they will not perish but have everlasting life. (Jn. 3:16) What a beautiful gift Lord...a gift that I pray they always believe in, and live out in their lives. If doubts arise in their minds and hearts, I pray Lord that you continue seeking them out, and do so in a way that they can sense you pursuing them and never leaving them. May their hearts remain steadfast in you, and they stand firm in their faith all the days of their lives.  Oh how I pray that they love you forever and ever!

Gifts & Time

"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms."  1 Peter 4:10

VBS "Advertising"...1997...Find Lyss & Kyle.

We are 2 days away from our church's Vacation Bible School.  VBS is one of our church's highlights each year, and we tend to do it up big.  In the final hours/.days before the big event, there are many things that need to be done, and many hours spent at the church.  Over the last three weeks, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching our church family pull together and use their gifts and talents to lend a hand to help.  Even Lyss gave some time and used her gifts.

By Lyss giving of her time, and using her gifts, she is a small part of changing children's lives at Vacation Bible School.  She is also a part of making the load lighter for others.  By her giving in this way she is blessing many other people's lives.

I pray that my kids will always be willing to use their time and gifts for the benefit of God and to bless others.

Thank you, Lyss, and dear church family for all your hard work!  What a blessing you've been, and will be in the coming week, to so many!

Oh Lord, you have gifted our children in so many ways, and you have specific purposes for their lives using those gifts.  Thank you for being their Master designer, and making them in such wonderful ways!  They are your children for sure!  I pray, dear Jesus, that they always choose to use their time and talent to serve you, help others, and show the world how to find you.  I pray that compassion fills their spirit, and flows out in their words and actions towards others.  I pray that they hold loosely to their own expectations, needs, and desires, and give freely of their time and talents to make a difference in other people's lives.  You can use their gifts in so many ways, if their hearts, minds, and bodies are willing.  In doing so they will be faithfully administering your grace in its various forms to others. Lord, thank you that you use us to show your love to others. Amen!

Thankful Thursday: His Calming Peace

"And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm."  Mark 4:39

 Lyss & Kyle...2008

I'm not a huge worrier...until it comes to my kids.  As I pray for Alyssa and Kyle each day, and sometimes pen stories or thoughts that have been impressed on my heart that day, God takes control of the storm I sometimes feel and says "Peace! Be still".

And there is a great calm.

Thank you, dear Sovereign Lord, for your calming peace in my life.  I revel in the assurance that you take great delight in me, and will quiet me with your love, rejoicing over me with singing.  Help me to "be still and know that you are God", especially where my kids are concerned.  I pray, Father, that you continue drawing Alyssa and Kyle to yourself so that they know you as God, Savior, and Friend.  In the area where I am weak in my parenting, I know you are strong and I'm thankful that you fill in all the gaps.  Thank you, Lord for your calming peace as I love, teach and let go of control in Alyssa and Kyle's lives.  They are yours for ever and ever.

Plenty of Time

I love these verses.  I normally read from the NIV, but I liked how The Message paraphrased it.  Take a look.  Ponder it, soak in it and see what God has to say to you. 

"The God who made the world and everything in it, this Master of sky and land, doesn't live in custom-made shrines or need the human race to run errands for him, as if he couldn't take care of himself. He makes the creatures; the creatures don't make him. Starting from scratch, he made the entire human race and made the earth hospitable, with plenty of time and space for living so we could seek after God, and not just grope around in the dark but actually find him. He doesn't play hide-and-seek with us. He's not remote; he's near. We live and move in him, can't get away from him!" 

                      -- Acts 17:24-28 (The Message)

Plenty of time and space for living...

It's crazy in our house right now.  I'm directing VBS (4 days and counting), with a kid in Drivers Ed, another kid in baseball (with 4-7 games/week) who is also leaving town tomorrow for a tournament, and many other appointments, ministries, and tasks to be taken care of.  Just being the mom that cooks and cleans can be a full-time job in itself (unfortunately this job is getting only quarter-time attention).  Sometimes it feels like there aren't enough hours in my day to get done all that I need to accomplish.

Plenty of time and space for living...

so we can seek after Him.

But more important than all of that is Jesus.

My time with Him.

His work in me.

The fingerprints of His touch on my day.

I don't want my busyness to overcrowd my Savior.

Yesterday I read the above scripture in my quiet time...moments later I read this from another blog.  The blogger quoted something that spoke to her from a study called Jesus Calling and it fit so well with what spoke to me in Acts.

Wait patiently with me while I bless you.  Don’t rush into My Presence with time-consciousness gnawing at your mind.  I dwell in timelessness: I am, I was, I will always be. For you, time is a protection; you’re a frail creature who can  handle only twenty-four-hour segments of life.  Time can also be a tyrant, ticking away relentlessly in your mind.  Learn to master time, or it will be your master.

Though you are a time-bound creature, seek to meet Me in timelessness.  As you focus on My Presence, the demands of time and tasks will diminish. I will bless you and keep you, making My Face shine upon your graciously, giving you Peace.

Plenty of time and space for living...

so we can seek after Him.

He doesn't play hide-and-seek with us. 

He's not remote; he's near. 

We live and move in him, 

can't get away from him.

Plenty of time.

So, how does this relate to praying for my kids today? 

The more time I spend with Jesus, the better mom I am to my kids, and the more peace, joy, and sweetness there is to be found in our home.  We live and move in Him.  By watching the way I start my day, handle each crisis or stress, and to Whom I go when I am weak worried, or wearym a very, is teaching them a very important life-lesson.

I'm praying that Alyssa and Kyle learn that there is

Plenty of time and space for living...

so we can seek after Him.

Lord, you made the world and everything in it. You give life and breath to everything, and satisfy every need. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle seek you and perhaps reach out for you and find you, though you are not far from each one of us. For in you we live and move and have our being.  Lord, help me as Alyssa and Kyle's mom to make good use of my time, and to start each day seeking after you.  In my being obedient to meet with you each day, I pray that I can be an example to Alyssa and Kyle and teach then the importance of spending time with you.  You are God, and you are an important, vital, and living part of my life, and I pray that is passed on to our children.  I love you, Lord, and give you praise.  Amen. 

Trust God, My Babies!

"I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.”  Psalm 31:14

I realized the other day that I haven't written a blog and prayer about trust.  Considering I've almost written 600 blogs, and think trust is such an important thing in our walk with the Lord, it's amazes me that I haven't even broached the subject.  How can that be?  We'll here I am to change things.

I pray, with my whole heart, that our kids trust God.

To trust: 

1. to have trust or confidence in; rely or depend on.

2. to believe.

3. to expect confidently; hope

We often put our trust in people or things that ultimately fail us.   But to know and trust in God, who proves Himself worthy of our trust, is the best thing we can do with our lives.  The more we practice trusting, and stepping out on faith, the easier it becomes.  The more we see God as good, loving and just, the more we see trust as the only way to go.  Trusting God truly is the best thing we can do. 

When my kids were little and frightened, they trusted me, and grabbed my hand and received this sense of refuge and security.  

 Kyle holding Daddy's hand...1998

When my kids were little and hurt, they trusted me, as they shared their sorrows or lifted their boo-boos for a kiss, and they found comfort and encouragement.

 Lyss & Papa...1999

When my kids were little and lost, they trusted me, and with a word of guidance or some direction they were confident to be on their way.

 Kyle trying his hand at driving...age 18 months

Trusting God offers all these things to Alyssa and Kyle in even greater supply. I pray that trust comes easily.  Oh, He is so worthy of our trust.

Lord, may my children say,  "I trust in you, O Lord; You are my God."  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle learn to trust you with all their heart and lean not on their own understanding, but in all their ways acknowledge you, for you will make their paths straight.  May trust come easily, stay forever, be found often, and change their lives from this day forward.  You, Lord, are worthy of our trust, and I cry out with praise and thanksgiving.  Amen.

Daily Sustenance

"It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the Lord his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees."  Deuteronomy 17:19

There are a few things that our kids do every day...

Wake up (after their human alarm clock goes off a few times).
Brush their teeth (hopefully).
Eat (and eat, and eat).
And then sleep (sometimes much to their dismay).

Kyle eating away...1998

All of these things sustain their physical bodies that are growing by leaps and bounds.  I think Kyle is getting taller right before my very eyes.  It won't be too much longer and he will be taller than his mom.

I want Alyssa and Kyle's spiritual lives to grow at that kind of rate too.  I think that growth will happen when they take time to read the Bible more often than just on Sundays. I want them to learn to gain a life-giving sustenance that comes as they eat and digest the true bread of life!  I long that these dear children of mine fall in love with God in deeper ways because they have been disciplined to spend time in His Word. 

"...he is to read it all the days of his life..."


Lord, your Word is a precious gift from you, and yet it's something we sometimes take for granted.  Draw Alyssa and Kyle to yourself, Father, through your Word.  Bring it to life in their lives.  Open their minds in new ways, so that they can begin to grasp the depths of your love, the truth of your plan, and the difference you can make in their lives.  Give them a thirst and hunger for the scriptures.  I want them to meet you in personal ways as they open the pages of your Word, and spend time with you.  Lord, move them to read it all the days of their life so that they may learn to revere you, the Lord their God and follow carefully all the words.  Thank you, Lord, for the way you speak to your children in such beautiful ways.  Thank you for the gift of your Word.

A Life with Hope

"You lived in this world without God and without hope. But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ."  Ephesians 2:12-13 (NLT)

 Kyle & Alyssa...2004

Lord, life without you is a life without hope.  So many in this world are lost, lonely, living in darkness, and searching for something that can fill the void in their lives.  Until they come to know you in a personal way, they cannot experience a truly satisfying life, filled with an everlasting joy, and marked by your peace.  Oh, I pray that my children never experience a life apart from you.  Through your salvation may they be brought near to you, and filled with the hope that comes only from being your child.  May Alyssa and Kyle call you Father all the days of their life.

Bite Your Tongue

"A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends."  Proverbs 16:28

This week I felt like a victim of gossip.  I know that because we are pastors of our church, and in the public eye, there's potential for that all the time.  I'm not naive to think that we make everyone happy, or do the right thing all the time, or are immune to people's criticisms.  It's just when I get to hear what is being said that it cuts to the heart.  I think I'd like to choose to be oblivious.

"La, la, la, la, la, la, la...(with finger inserted in my ears)."

But it was a good reminder for me.  I'm not always a saint in the gossip department either.  Complaining is easy to do, especially when I've been hurt, find myself angry, or feel disappointed.

I want to be an example to my children on how to be different.  Gossip doesn't help us to look like who God wants us to be.  So, today I'm praying that they learn to be more like Christ and less like the world.  Shorter on natural tendencies and longer on grace.

Let's go back to the lesson we learned in kindergarten..."If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." 

Lord, be the guard on our lips.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle's lips are always marked by grace for others and praise for you.  In the moments where they are tempted to speak ill of someone else, or tell a story that is not theirs to tell, I pray that your Spirit prompts them to choose to differently. Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—I pray that they think about such things.  Thank you, Lord, for hearing these prayerful words of my heart.

Thankful Thursday: Making a List

"I'll make a list of God's gracious dealings,
   all the things God has done that need praising,
All the generous bounties of God,
   his great goodness to the family of Israel—
Compassion lavished, love extravagant."

Isaiah 63:7 (The Message) 

I'm making a list and "checking it twice" of all the things God has done that need praising:

• The boys traveled for a a baseball tournament last weekend...they were safe, they had fun, and Kyle got his first hit on this new "man" team.  
• The girls stayed home and had some good time together...working on VBS, shopping, and watching movies.  
• VBS is coming together.  I love that most of the youth in the church are volunteering to help out!  I especially enjoyed watching our girl use her talents in the painting department for the decorations.  10 more days until the big kick-off.  Much to do.  Oh much to do!
• Alyssa drove for the first time!...and came back safe.  
• Praying together at YIPPS was a blessing.

God is good...ALL the time!

Lord, I will tell of all of your kindnesses, and the deeds for which you are to be praised.  The list above is not exhaustive in any way and my heart rejoices that you are living and active in our lives.  Thank you for the way you are present in Alyssa and Kyle's lives and how you are wooing them to yourself.  I can't keep silent about my deep love for you, Lord, and how grateful I am for your faithful activity throughout each day.  You are our Sovereign Lord, and the Lord Almighty, and I give you praise.  Amen.

Pray and Praise

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."  Romans 12:12

CHORUS:

And I'll praise you in this storm

and I will lift my hands

for You are who You are

no matter where I am

and every tear I've cried

You hold in your hand

You never left my side

and though my heart is torn

I will praise You in this storm. 

My kids will (and have) faced a few storms in their lives, and I can probably guarantee them that there will be more to come.

I remember when Lyss was just a few months old, and not old enough to roll over yet (or so I thought), and she fell of my huge waterbed.  I was curling my hair in the bathroom and would poke my head out between curls, make her laugh, and then stick my head back in the bathroom to make another curl.   Next thing I knew I heard a cry and found my baby on the floor.  Oh my heart stopped.  Being the first time mom that I was I immediately called the doctor and rushed her to the office to get checked out.  The pediatrician was sweet as she looked over baby Alyssa, and was good at comforting this anxious and guilt ridden mom.  Before we left she said, "Tresa, this will not be the last time your baby will fall and get hurt, nor will it be the worse, and she will survive."

Yes, Alyssa and Kyle will fall and go through storms in their lives, and sometimes it will hurt a little and sometimes it will hurt a lot.  However, if they can "be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer" they will survive these storm and gain a treasure worth its weight in gold...a deeper relationship with God.

I pray that our kids learn to pray to Him AND praise Him in the storm.

Lord, I pray that in the storms of life Alyssa and Kyle find themselves joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.  As a mother, I always want to ask you to protect them through those falls and storms, but I also ultimately hope that they are refined, stretched, and grown into who you want them to be.  Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle learn to trust you with all their heart, and never lean on their own understanding, but in all their ways (and through all their storms) acknowledge you, for I know and trust that you will make their paths straight.  May Alyssa and Kyle always pray to you and praise you in the storms.  Amen.

Day for Facing a Fear

"Be strong and courageous."  Deuteronomy 31:6

A couple of weeks ago I wrote a post about Alyssa's driving fears and the start of her drivers ed. class.  Well today she is taking another step to conquer her fear.  It's driving day!  The classes are done and now she gets to get behind the wheel.

This is a new opportunity for Lyss to face her fears, trust God for strength and protection, and gain confidence in the abilities He has given her.

Watch out world, here comes Lyss!

"Whatever I have, wherever I am, 

I can make it through anything 

in the One who makes me who I am."  

Philippians 4:13 (The Message) 

Lord, help today to be a successful day in facing fears and having faith in your strength and protection.  When Alyssa and Kyle are afraid may they find you to be their refuge and shelter in times of trials and storms.  In times where they go through things that build their character and are a part of learning some of life's  important lessons, may they depend on you, Father, for guidance, direction, strength and peace.  May Alyssa and Kyle not have a spirit of timidity, but one of strength, love and self discipline.  With you, dear Jesus, they can be strong and courageous!

Seasoned with Grace

"Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."  Colossians 4:6 (NASB)

Week two of summer vacation begins today.  I don't know about anybody else, but it always seems to take some adjustment for our family to get used to being together for a longer period of time than just a few hours after school.  Attitudes get irritable, words are short, and patience seems to grow mighty thin.

I want this second week to different.  I'm praying it is seasoned with grace.

Lord, this is the day you have made, and so I will rejoice and be glad.  Please be living and active in our family this week.  Help our speech to always be full of grace and used for building one another up.  Help us rid ourselves of all such things as anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from our lips.  May there be no unwholesome talk coming out of our mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs.  Lord, help us to reflect you to one another in all that we say and do.  Amen.
 

Salvation Saturday: Choose Christ!

"Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve..."  Joshua 24:15

 Alyssa & Kyle...1999

Going to church doesn't make you a Christian

any more than going to the garage makes you a car.
--Laurence J. Peter

Salvation is my greatest prayer for my children. Just because Alyssa and Kyle have grown up in the church, or have parents who are pastors, it doesn’t guarantee that they will choose to believe in Jesus Christ. One day they will have to choose for themselves whom they will serve.

And I pray that they choose Christ!

Lord, hear my heart! I pray that Alyssa and Kyle believe in you all the days of their lives. May the seeds that have been planted in their hearts and minds by their parents, Sunday school teachers over the years, or their youth workers and friends, germinate into a lifelong love for you! I pray that the message of your Word becomes real to them, and they believe with all their heart that You the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. May they believe you are the Creator, the Forgiver of sins, and the Light of the world! Lord, may they look to you as their Savior! This is my greatest desire, and I'm sure your greatest desire too. Lord Almighty, I entrust Alyssa and Kyle to your care today!

Her Beauty

"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight."  1 Peter 3:3-4

Yesterday I I took my daughter for a "quick" trip to Walgreens.  Oh a girl has so many needs!  By the time we left we needed a bag to help carry all of our loot.  There happened to be a good clearance on beauty supplies.  Still she took away more than we went in for and probably more than she really needs.

I have nothing against a few hair products or a little make-up.  Even I spend money on those kinds of things.  But as I contemplated the wad, I was reminded to pray for my daughter's self esteem.  I hope she knows she is beautiful, even without all that stuff, and that above all her beauty will shine greater as His Spirit lives in her and as she exudes a gentle and quiet spirit. 

Lyss, you ARE beautiful, and I know that the King is enthralled with your beauty! (Psalm 45:11)

Lord, you have fearfully and wonderfully made both of our children.  Alyssa and Kyle are precious in your sight and you love them.  I pray especially for Alyssa today that she would know that she is beautiful, and that her beauty does not come from outward adornment. Instead, her beauty really comes from that of her inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in your sight.  Lord, give her a sense of confidence and peace about who you have made her to be. May she know and believe that you are God and you love her deeply.  Thank you, dear Jesus, for being alive and active in Lyss's life and you make her beautiful.

Thankful Thursday: Held Together

"He is before all things, and in him all things hold together." Col. 1:17

Picture taken by Lyss

Today, I am thankful for the scripture I found for today. I am thankful that He is God and I am not. I am thankful that in Him all things hold together.

• My husband and I are just about to celebrate 22 years of marriage.

In Him all things hold together.

• We are a family with two teenagers who love Jesus, get good grades, and are individuals to be proud of in so many ways.

In Him all things hold together.

• We've been pastoring our church for 17 years and still find it exciting to be in ministry!

In Him all things hold together.

• We have a beautiful home and I've been able to be a stay-at-home for the last 17 years.

In Him all things hold together.

In Him all things hold together.

Lord, I thank you that you are God, you are before all things, and that in you all things hold together. You are our awesome Creator, and you make everything beautiful in its time. As a mom, I am always trying to hold everything together, and do things in my own strength. However, you are God and I am not, and I can look to you for strength, wisdom, and hope as I parent, be a wife, minister, and just live day by day. You, Lord, are the glue that holds my marriage together, and keeps my family united. You are my strength, when I am weak. You are my hope, when things feel hopeless. You are my light, when the days seem dark. You are God, and in you all things hold together...even me.

Learning New "Stuff"

"Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
   the man who gains understanding..."  

--Proverbs 3:13

 Kyle and his friend Jake...2005

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this yet on my blog, but Kyle recently was accepted to a new baseball team.  It's exciting and scary all at the same time (at least for mom) because he's playing on a high school team, with some kids much older than he is.  I mean some have facial hair and their voices have this deep, manly tone about them.  At 14, I know that it won't be long until Kyle sees those changes too, but a mom can be in denial if she wants.  

There are a lot of changes playing with the big boys...besides facial hair and manly voices.  There seem to be games almost every day and often a 2 hour warm up before a game, or a 3 hour practice on non-game days.  This is getting serious man.

One day after a game/practice last week, Kyle got in the car and I asked my usual "how did it go?"  He responded with "Wow I'm learning a lot of new stuff."  

I love that.  This is a great opportunity for Kyle.  

I love that my kids are continually learning, and also willing to admit that there is something they don't know.  I pray that they are always open to listening to the wisdom and advise of other people in their lives, and to be teachable when there is something new to learn.  May they always be so excited to gain wisdom!

Now that's makes a smart kid!

Kyle with the "big boys" last week.

Lord, thank you for the growing wisdom that happens within Alyssa and Kyle's minds.  Continue to help them be accepting of others guidance and wisdom.  Open their ears to hear the things being taught and the wisdom to know what is not the correct teaching.  May Alyssa and Kyle always search wisdom and gain understanding.

Warning: Contains Complaining

"So let’s not get tired of doing what is good."  Galatians 6:9

It's summer break time!  Yesterday was our official first day of no school.  It wasn't long before I heard the first "I'm bored" or "There's nothing to do."  Could they have just waited until day #2 to issue any complaint?

I'm thinking I'll also have to be reminding them of the "rules" and expectations I have for the coming months (or for the rest of their lives)...

• Throw away your own trash.
• Turn off the lights.
• Put the dishes in the dishwasher.
• Wipe off the counter if you make a mess.
• Take the cans/bottles to the recycle bin.

PICK UP AFTER YOURSELVES!

Oh, did that sound like I was yelling?  Sorry. I think I picked up one too many things that weren't mine yesterday.

I truly want my kids eyes to be open to how they can help around the house, and what their responsibilities are.  I want them to somehow naturally see what needs to be done and then do it.

I guess I'll just have to keep nagging until they get it.  Or pray harder.

Lord, be with our family in this new season.  May this be a time where Alyssa and Kyle grow and mature and face their responsibilities head-on.  I pray that they don't tire of doing what is right, good, and helpful to others. Responsibility is growing more and more in Alyssa and Kyle and I know that it is you moving and living in them.  Please continue to show them the areas in which they need to step up and do better.  Prompt their hearts to do their best!  May their hearts be marked by kindness, service and compassion.  Move them, dear Jesus, to be their best!

Be Strong and Courageous!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”  Joshua 1:9

Kyle taking the plunge...2006

The command to "be strong and courageous" appears about 11 times in scripture.  I think it may be said over and over again because it's something we need to hear. I know that I often need to be reminded to "take courage" (listed at least 4 times).

"Be strong and courageous", Tresa, as you parent.
"Be strong and courageous", Tresa, when you need to face a fear.
"Be strong and courageous"m Tresa, when you think about the future.
"Be strong and courageous", Tresa!

I believe that our children need to hear and be encouraged by this reminder today.

"Be strong and courageous", my child, as you try something new.
"Be strong and courageous", my child, as you face your fear.
"Be strong and courageous", my child, when you have to endure a hurt.
"Be strong and courageous", my child, when you need to speak the truth.
"Be strong and courageous", my child, each time you choose to do the right thing.

With God Alyssa and Kyle can do all things!  Nothing is Impossible.  Today, I pray that they will be "be strong and courageous!"

Lord, help Alyssa and Kyle to be strong and courageous today.  Whatever fears they face, and with whoever they come in contact with, or in whatever they have to do, I pray that they know that you are walking by their side.  You provide them the strength they need to do all things.  You will never leave them or forsake them.  May your Spirit resound in the depths of their heart and remind them continually that they can be strong and courageous as they walk with you.  Thank you, Lord, that we can take courage, stand firm and live in your hope.  Oh Savior you are so precious.

God is Bigger

"I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better."  Ephesians 1:17

I read this yesterday and loved it...

 In the book Prince Caspian, Lucy sees Aslan, the lion, for the first time in many years.  He has changed since their last encounter.  His size surprises her, ad she tells him as much.

"Aslan" said Lucy, "you're bigger."

"That is because you are older, little one," answered he.

"Not because you are?"

"I am not.  But every year you grow, you will find me bigger."

And so it is with Christ.  The longer we live in him, the greater he becomes in us.  It's not that he changes but that we do; we see more of him.  We see dimensions, aspects, and characteristics we never saw before, increasing and astonishing increments of his purity, power, and uniqueness.  (Fearless by Max Lucado, page 170)

That's how I want it to be for Alyssa and Kyle. I want the Lord to become bigger and bigger in their life, and their learning about Him just get deeper and deeper.  There is so much we can't fully comprehend about God, but the joy is, that He's always allowing us the opportunity to know Him more.

Alyssa and Kyle, live in Christ, and you will see Him in ways you can hardly imagine!

Lord, what a big, big God you are.  So often we can hardly fathom your greatness, your holiness, and your majesty.  However, the more time we spend with you,the greater you become in our understanding.  I pray, dear Jesus, that Alyssa and Kyle choose to get to know you deeper and deeper.  Today can be the beginning of a wonderful adventure with you!  Oh, I pray it is so!

Praying Scripture: How Wide, Long, High and Deep

Oh Lord, I pray that out of your glorious riches you may strengthen Alyssa & Kyle with power through your Spirit in their inner being, so that you may dwell in their hearts through faith. And I pray that Alyssa & Kyle, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is your love, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that Alyssa & Kyle may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of you.

Lord, you are able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to your power that is at work within Alyssa & Kyle, to you be glory in the church and throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

--Ephesians 3:16-21