Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Praying Scripture
"In you, Lord my God, I put my trust. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle put their trust you.
I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle not be put to shame. Please protect them and not let their enemies triumph over them.
No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. Grow Alyssa and Kyle's hope in you, and keep them from shame.
Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Show Alyssa and Kyle your ways and teach them your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Guide Alyssa and Kyle in your truth, for you are God their Savior. may their hope be in you all day long.
Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love for Alyssa and Kyle.
Do not remember the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you, Lord, are good. I pray you forget the sins of Alyssa and Kyle's youth, and their rebellious ways; according to your love, remember them, for you, Lord, are good!
Psalm 25:1-7 NIV
I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle not be put to shame. Please protect them and not let their enemies triumph over them.
No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. Grow Alyssa and Kyle's hope in you, and keep them from shame.
Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Show Alyssa and Kyle your ways and teach them your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Guide Alyssa and Kyle in your truth, for you are God their Savior. may their hope be in you all day long.
Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love for Alyssa and Kyle.
Do not remember the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you, Lord, are good. I pray you forget the sins of Alyssa and Kyle's youth, and their rebellious ways; according to your love, remember them, for you, Lord, are good!
Psalm 25:1-7 NIV
Monday, April 28, 2014
Last Week of School
"All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." Proverbs 14:23
It's the last week of school for Lyssa...
and final projects and exams are in full swing.
What more can I say?
Lord, be with Alyssa as she works hard to finish off this school year. Help her to learn that hard work brings a profit and will give her success, pride and confidence for the future. Today, when it's easy to procrastinate or get discouraged, I pray that you strengthen Alyssa and give her the courage to work hard and do her best. Thank you, for each success and the learning that has happened this school year. To you be the praise and glory!
It's the last week of school for Lyssa...
and final projects and exams are in full swing.
What more can I say?
Lord, be with Alyssa as she works hard to finish off this school year. Help her to learn that hard work brings a profit and will give her success, pride and confidence for the future. Today, when it's easy to procrastinate or get discouraged, I pray that you strengthen Alyssa and give her the courage to work hard and do her best. Thank you, for each success and the learning that has happened this school year. To you be the praise and glory!
Friday, April 25, 2014
Doing Right
"For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man." 2 Corinthians 8:21
Kyle got a 100% on his calculus test this week. He was one of two in the class to get a perfect score.
That's my boy!!!
As the teacher was passing out the tests, he announced that there were two who got 100%, and they were both sitting in the back and must have cheated.
<<gasp>>
Kyle had to clue me in that the teacher was just joking. Whew.
And then I saw the news where a Yankee player was suspended for 10 games because he decided to cheat.
Cheating, lying and deception sometimes seem common place. I pray it isn't so in Alyssa and Kyle's lives. Honesty and integrity are really the right way to go!
Lord, I pray that honesty and doing right are always the way Alyssa and Kyle choose to live. It's important to do what is right, not only in the your eyes, but also in the eyes of man. Please keep a tight protection on Alyssa and Kyle's integrity, and prod their hearts when they are tempted to lie, cheat or steal. I pray that they are rewarded when they choose to live according to your law and design for their lives.
That's my boy!!!
As the teacher was passing out the tests, he announced that there were two who got 100%, and they were both sitting in the back and must have cheated.
<<gasp>>
Kyle had to clue me in that the teacher was just joking. Whew.
And then I saw the news where a Yankee player was suspended for 10 games because he decided to cheat.
Cheating, lying and deception sometimes seem common place. I pray it isn't so in Alyssa and Kyle's lives. Honesty and integrity are really the right way to go!
Lord, I pray that honesty and doing right are always the way Alyssa and Kyle choose to live. It's important to do what is right, not only in the your eyes, but also in the eyes of man. Please keep a tight protection on Alyssa and Kyle's integrity, and prod their hearts when they are tempted to lie, cheat or steal. I pray that they are rewarded when they choose to live according to your law and design for their lives.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Thankful Thursday
"My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to You because You have redeemed me." Psalm 71:23
On this Thankful Thursday we have many reason to shout for joy! Our God is so good!
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On this Thankful Thursday we have many reason to shout for joy! Our God is so good!
- A wonderful Good Friday service and Easter Sunday services.
- A visit with a baseball coach from an area college.
- Picking a tuxedo with Kyle for prom.
- I got a new bike from my Easter honey! It's purple! What a fun surprise!
- An Easter afternoon bike ride with my boys (picture above).
- Lyssa got a new-to-her car.
- A day with no baseball for Kyle and a night of rest for all.
Lord, you have been so good to our family!
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Live Generously
Teaching my kids how to love their enemies is hard sometimes cause the "mama bear" in me feels their hurt and inner struggle, and it's our natural tendency to want to fight back, to defend, and to make right the wrong. But God's Word commands us differently.
Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. (The Message)
Do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. (NIV)My son has been struggling with a couple of teachers in school this year. His struggle (as far as I can tell) is mostly internal and he hasn't actually acted out in rebellion, disrespect, and anger. It's just the little things these people do that make him feel picked on and disliked. Sure, there are two sides to the story and Kyle's perception could be skewed, but still when my son feels these things, he feels them. And this mama's heart feels them.
The world teaches us to stand up for yourself or disrespect back, and I'm trying to encourage my son that there is a different way that God calls us to. Because we are followers of Christ we want to be like Christ to the world around us...doing good, blessing, and praying for the one who offends. It means going above and beyond to be better than our enemies expect, being kind, showing humility instead of pride, and becoming stronger through the trial instead of weaker. It's hard to "let them bring out the best in you" when it goes against everything we feel.
The Message translation concludes this passage in Luke 6 (above) on loving our enemies, by challenging us to "live generously". Giving to others when they don't deserve it. As my kids go out in this world today, that is my prayer for them, as they face unkind and difficult people.
Live generously, sweet ones, cause God will see. He will be your defender. He will reward and love.
Lord, help Alyssa and Kyle to love their enemies and do good to those who mistreat them. Praying for those who cause us to struggle is the harder, but better, thing to do. Oh to let these situations bring out the best in them, and not the worst, is my prayer. Holy Spirit, speak tenderly to Alyssa and Kyle's broken and hurting hearts, when people don't treat them with kindness and respect. Remind them that you are their Defender. Instruct them on how to respond in a way that brings you glory and turns around the circumstances they are in. In this world we will have troubles, but through them I pray that Alyssa and Kyle trust you and follow your example to live generously, especially to those who don't deserve it. Encourage Alyssa and Kyle's hearts today and remind them that they are dearly loved by you!
Monday, April 21, 2014
Hide and Seek
"After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive." Acts 1:3
I love that Scripture..."He showed himself to these men." God doesn't want to play "Hide and Seek". He just wants His children to know, without a shadow of a doubt, that He is alive and present in their lives.
I always laughed when the kids and I played "Hide and Seek" when they were little. Because though they were "hiding", I could hear little giggles or their continual movement as they got comfortable. Their excitement grew as I got closer and closer to their hiding spot. Unfortunately, finding them wasn't too hard.
I think God's like that. He's the Living God, and he is active in our lives, and He wants us to know it. He wants us to find Him!
I pray that my kids can sense His presence with them every day, and recognize the "convincing proofs" that He is God.
Lord, show yourself to Alyssa and Kyle and help them to see many convincing proofs that You are truly alive! Open their eyes so that they may recognize you, and know that you are God.
Alyssa & Kyle (1997)
I love that Scripture..."He showed himself to these men." God doesn't want to play "Hide and Seek". He just wants His children to know, without a shadow of a doubt, that He is alive and present in their lives.
I always laughed when the kids and I played "Hide and Seek" when they were little. Because though they were "hiding", I could hear little giggles or their continual movement as they got comfortable. Their excitement grew as I got closer and closer to their hiding spot. Unfortunately, finding them wasn't too hard.
I think God's like that. He's the Living God, and he is active in our lives, and He wants us to know it. He wants us to find Him!
I pray that my kids can sense His presence with them every day, and recognize the "convincing proofs" that He is God.
Lord, show yourself to Alyssa and Kyle and help them to see many convincing proofs that You are truly alive! Open their eyes so that they may recognize you, and know that you are God.
Friday, April 18, 2014
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
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.
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.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Thankful Thursday
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
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So thankful that even in my unloveliness God extends His extravagant grace to me. Daily, moment by moment, and without reservation He loves me. In return, I am wholeheartedly devoted to Him.
I am also grateful for a few things in my week...
So thankful that even in my unloveliness God extends His extravagant grace to me. Daily, moment by moment, and without reservation He loves me. In return, I am wholeheartedly devoted to Him.
I am also grateful for a few things in my week...
- A wonderful women's retreat with my church friends! Oh the worship, laughter, and encouraging conversations that touched my heart. I loved seeing God's work in ladies lives.
- Oh, and my mom was at retreat, and that was a double blessing. I love to hear her sing and I'm thankful for her faith!
- I came home to dinner on the table, a freshly bathed dog, and my two boys excited to see me. Melt my heart.
- Answered prayers remind me that God is intimately aware of my needs.
- Verses, blogs, and notes that speak to my heart condition.
- Kyle had a few good hits in baseball games this week and some increased attention from college scouts. I'm waiting expectantly for God's plan to unfold in his life.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Think About These Things
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is
just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if
there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think
about these things." Philippians 4:8
Think about these things. I needed to be reminded.
The Message version says it beautifully.
"I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies." Philippians 4:8-9
The best, not the worst.
The beautiful, not the ugly.
Things to praise, not things to curse.
Fixing my mind on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely and commendable takes discipline, decision, and persistence. It's God's calling. His will.
I pray that Alyssa and Kyle can train their minds to focus on the truth in regards to their self-esteem, or when they face discouragement and doubt, or when people are unkind and unlovely. Learning to fight the battle of the war waging in their head and heart may be the most important thing they do.
"And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:9
God of peace, how we need you! Help us to learn how to fill our minds with truth. Teach us to think on the things that are right and pure. And when our mind wants to go in unhealthy directions, teach us to take captive every thought to make it obedient to you. Lord, be ever present in Alyssa and Kyle's thought life. If there is discouragement, bring comfort. If there is doubt, strengthen their confidence. Help Alyssa and Kyle stand strong and courageous in the battles that go on in their minds. You, in turn, will be their peace!
Think about these things. I needed to be reminded.
The Message version says it beautifully.
"I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies." Philippians 4:8-9
The best, not the worst.
The beautiful, not the ugly.
Things to praise, not things to curse.
Fixing my mind on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely and commendable takes discipline, decision, and persistence. It's God's calling. His will.
I pray that Alyssa and Kyle can train their minds to focus on the truth in regards to their self-esteem, or when they face discouragement and doubt, or when people are unkind and unlovely. Learning to fight the battle of the war waging in their head and heart may be the most important thing they do.
"And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:9
God of peace, how we need you! Help us to learn how to fill our minds with truth. Teach us to think on the things that are right and pure. And when our mind wants to go in unhealthy directions, teach us to take captive every thought to make it obedient to you. Lord, be ever present in Alyssa and Kyle's thought life. If there is discouragement, bring comfort. If there is doubt, strengthen their confidence. Help Alyssa and Kyle stand strong and courageous in the battles that go on in their minds. You, in turn, will be their peace!
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Thankful Thursday
"The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of
his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had
provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the
Majesty in heaven." Hebrews 1:3
I'm so thankful that God sustains all things. What promise and hope for parenting, busy lives, and unknown futures. It reminds me of the song "Because He Lives"...
I'm so thankful that God sustains all things. What promise and hope for parenting, busy lives, and unknown futures. It reminds me of the song "Because He Lives"...
Because He lives
I can face tomorrow
Because He lives
All fear is gone
Because I know
He holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because He lives
I can face tomorrow
Because He lives
All fear is gone
Because I know
He holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because He lives
Amen and Amen!! So thankful!
Here's also a few things I'm grateful for on the home front...
- Kyle's continuing to get great grades even with the busyness of baseball starting. His lowest grade is an 89% (pre-calculus). Pretty good, I think!
- Lyssa facetimed me on Sunday. She's been fighting not feeling well, but continues to press on in her last month of college classes. I'll post a picture of her latest art project. Beautiful in my humble opinion.
- Kyle took me to hit balls at our local golf course. He was a great (but unsuccessful) teacher at showing me how to use a golf club appropriately. His lack of success had nothing to do with his teaching skills, but everything to do with my lack of skill. I enjoyed our time together the most.
- Ken had the opportunity to make some extra money on Monday. Every little extra "dough" we make is a blessing in paying for our children's upcoming summer adventures (wedding and baseball camps aren't cheap!). God is so good! And I'm thankful for a man who works hard and sacrificially!
- I'm heading to Women's Retreat today. It's been a few months of planning and work to put it together but I have enjoyed watching God's pre-retreat work and can't wait to see what He'll do this weekend as we gather.
- And oh how I love that spring is here! My trees are beautiful with pink and white blossoms. I wish they would just stay that way for more than a week. I guess that is what causes me to be more in awe today!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Praying Scripture
Kyle & Lyssa, April 2005
(1 John 2:15-17)
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle will not love the world’s ways. I pray that they don’t love the world’s goods. For having a love of the world squeezes out love for you, Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world—wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important—has nothing to do with their walk with you. It will just isolate Alyssa and Kyle from a vital and healthy relationship with you. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but when Alyssa and Kyle do what you want they will be set for eternity.
Thank you, Precious Savior.
Amen
Monday, April 7, 2014
A Great Calm
"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
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 feel and I hear Him say "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.
Brother and Sister (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 feel and I hear Him say "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.
Friday, April 4, 2014
The Best Policy
"Whoever can be trusted with very little can
also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little
will also be dishonest with much." Luke 16:10-11
Every day our children have the opportunity to choose truth or lies. In their schoolwork, in conversation with others, when they are left home alone, or as they are out and about with friends, I pray that honesty is always their first response. One moment of dishonesty can deteriorate trust in any relationship. Telling a little white lie here or there, may be the easiest way to go to stay out of hot water, but in the end it really could cause great damage.
Honesty is vital for healthy relationships, successful careers, and a peace within themselves. Some days, it will take much effort to choose being honest and truthful, but I don't believe my children will ever regret doing the better and right thing.
I pray that trust and honesty mark Alyssa and Kyle's lives...in every day and with every decision.
Lord, I pray that truth and honesty is always a part of the fabric of my children’s lives. Holy Spirit, guide and lead Alyssa and Kyle into living lives that please you. May honesty be forever on their lips. May they choose honesty in the decisions they make, with the conversations they have, and in every action they take. Give Alyssa and Kyle the strength and courage when it seems to be the hard thing to do, and peace when fear tempts them to walk the other way. Lord, I pray that they will find your strength and help, when they choose honesty, integrity, and truthfulness. May they always put their hope in you. Honesty is a trademark that I pray that Alyssa and Kyle wear with pride.
Kyle (age 3?)
Every day our children have the opportunity to choose truth or lies. In their schoolwork, in conversation with others, when they are left home alone, or as they are out and about with friends, I pray that honesty is always their first response. One moment of dishonesty can deteriorate trust in any relationship. Telling a little white lie here or there, may be the easiest way to go to stay out of hot water, but in the end it really could cause great damage.
"Those who think it is permissible
to tell white lies
soon grow color-blind."
~Austin O'Malley
Honesty is vital for healthy relationships, successful careers, and a peace within themselves. Some days, it will take much effort to choose being honest and truthful, but I don't believe my children will ever regret doing the better and right thing.
I pray that trust and honesty mark Alyssa and Kyle's lives...in every day and with every decision.
Lord, I pray that truth and honesty is always a part of the fabric of my children’s lives. Holy Spirit, guide and lead Alyssa and Kyle into living lives that please you. May honesty be forever on their lips. May they choose honesty in the decisions they make, with the conversations they have, and in every action they take. Give Alyssa and Kyle the strength and courage when it seems to be the hard thing to do, and peace when fear tempts them to walk the other way. Lord, I pray that they will find your strength and help, when they choose honesty, integrity, and truthfulness. May they always put their hope in you. Honesty is a trademark that I pray that Alyssa and Kyle wear with pride.
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Thankful Thursday
A few things I'm thankful to the Lord for this last week...
- Wedding dress shopping with my daughter.
- Time with family.
- Laughter, fun, food, and lots of running around with Lyssa and Jered.
- Signs of spring.
- Though I missed my boy's games while I was away, another mom sent me this picture. I got this after we had spent an evening watching videos of when our kids were small. It amazes me to see my boys growth! He's a young man for sure!
Great is the Lord, and most worthy of praise..." Psalm 48:1
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