Showing posts with label Character. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Character. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
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.
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!
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Thankful Thursday!
"He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food." Job 36:16
"For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all..." 2 Corinthians 5:14
"The Lord your God fights for you, just as he promised." Joshua 23:10
I know that God is pursuing my children. He longs for them to love Him, believe in Him, and spend their lives forever by His side. And He longs for that deeper than this mother does.
Oh, to know that He is wooing Alyssa and Kyle to Himself.
There's nothing sweeter!
Lord, thank you for your continual pursuit of Alyssa and Kyle. Thank you that you long for them to be your daughter and son, and to speak to them as one would speak to a friend (Exodus 33:11). You fight for them to belong to you. You woo them into a love relationship with their Savior. I kur now, Lord, that you will never give up on them, and will always show up in the different parts of their lives. Open their eyes that they might see your uncompromising presence and unconditional love. Move their hearts to beat after yours. Thank you, Lord, for loving your children!
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
How Time Changes Things!
"I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do." Acts 13:22
Happy Birthday to our son, Kyle!
On his birth, 17 years ago,
he weighed 8 lbs 2 oz and was 21 inches long.
He was born on a cold blustery night as we listened to the news that Bill Clinton was re-elected for his second term in office as President of the United States.
Gas was $1.22/gallon,
the Yankees had just won the World Series,
and the Nintendo 64 was making its debut.
Kyle Chandler on the t.v. show Early Edition prompted us to like the name "Kyle" if we happened to have a boy (the doctor had guessed a girl....surprise!).
Today our Kyle is 5 feet 10 inches and 165 lbs, and is thrilled as can be that the Boston Red Sox took the World Series last week. And gas? Who would have guessed we'd be happy that gasoline is down a few cents in the last week and is at $3.54?
A lot has changed in 17 years!
But one thing that has not?
That I sure love that boy that God gave us.
I pray that Kyle becomes a man after God's heart and will do everything God wants him to do! What joy it will be to continue to watch God's will for his life unfold!
Happy Birthday, Son!
Lord, blessed is the man you're making Kyle to be,
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
I pray that Kyle is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
(Psalm 1:1-3)
Monday, November 4, 2013
Putting Self Aside
It's selfish and stupid
to think only of yourself
and to sneer at people
who have sense.
Fools have no desire to learn;
they would much rather
give their own opinion.
Wrongdoing leads to shame
and disgrace.
--Proverbs 18:1-3
Lord, if Alyssa and Kyle have
gotten anything at all out of following you, if your love has made any
difference in their life, if being in a community of your Spirit means
anything to them, if they have a heart, or if they care— then I pray
that they do this: Agree with each other, love each other, be
deep-spirited friends. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle not be tempted to push their
way to the front; and not sweet-talk their way to the top. May they always put their self aside, and help others get ahead. Some
days it will take intention and choice, but I pray that they not be
obsessed with getting their own advantage. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle forget
themselves long enough to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Lord,
may our children always have the same attitude of Christ Jesus who
gave up his life for others. (Philippians 2:1-5)
Friday, November 1, 2013
Praying Scripture: Wise Choices
Lyss (2008)
As I contemplated what I wanted to pray for today I just couldn't help but think about my hope that Alyssa and Kyle make wise choices in their life...
Who they hang out with,
what they do when together with their friends,
what movies they watch or music they listen to.
How they spend their money,
drive their car,
or take care of their bodies.
How much effort to put into their schoolwork,
when to study,
and when to study harder.
Who to date,
when to say "no",
and choosing their partner for life.
Choices.
Choices.
Wise choices.
Lord, help Alyssa and Kyle choose to do what is right and best with their lives!
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle remember
your teachings and instructions
and obey them completely.
Those lessons will help them live
a long and prosperous life.
Let love and loyalty
always show like a necklace,
and be written on Alyssa and Kyle's mind.
You, God, and people will like them
and consider them a success.
With all their heart
Alyssa and Kyle must trust you, Lord
and not their own judgment.
Always lead Alyssa and Kyle,
and clear the road
for them to follow.
Keep Alyssa and Kyle from ever thinking
that they are wise enough,
but respect you, Lord,
and stay away from evil.
This will make Alyssa and Kyle healthy,
and they will feel strong.
Proverbs 3:1-8
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
With His Strength
" I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
Philippians 4:13 is inscribed in the bill of Kyle's baseball hat. He wrote it himself. I love that! A constant reminder, on top of his head, of all he can do with God's help.
This weekend we traveled 650 miles to attend a baseball scouting event. Kyle arrived to play on a team he's never played on, with a bunch of players he didn't know, in front of a few college scouts. He could do all this with God's strength.
Kyle worked on his homework, both coming and going, to make sure he had everything done that he needed done to go to school yesterday. That was even after playing 6-7 hours of baseball. He did all that with God's strength.
Then, after arriving home at 2:00 am, Kyle still got up at 6:30 am to go to school. All in God's strength!
Each day our kids face all sorts of obstacles and challenges. and if they can say "I can do all this through him who gives me strength", they will be able to accomplish more than they could ever imagine.
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle hold on to the truth that they can do all things with you as their strength. As they face obstacles, challenges and difficulties may they fix their eyes on you as their help. Alyssa and Kyle can go many places and do things unimaginable with you by their side. You, Lord, are their refuge and strength, and their ever present help in trouble. Thank you, Lord, for your abiding presence with our children.
.
St. George, Utah (2013)
Philippians 4:13 is inscribed in the bill of Kyle's baseball hat. He wrote it himself. I love that! A constant reminder, on top of his head, of all he can do with God's help.
This weekend we traveled 650 miles to attend a baseball scouting event. Kyle arrived to play on a team he's never played on, with a bunch of players he didn't know, in front of a few college scouts. He could do all this with God's strength.
Kyle worked on his homework, both coming and going, to make sure he had everything done that he needed done to go to school yesterday. That was even after playing 6-7 hours of baseball. He did all that with God's strength.
Then, after arriving home at 2:00 am, Kyle still got up at 6:30 am to go to school. All in God's strength!
Each day our kids face all sorts of obstacles and challenges. and if they can say "I can do all this through him who gives me strength", they will be able to accomplish more than they could ever imagine.
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle hold on to the truth that they can do all things with you as their strength. As they face obstacles, challenges and difficulties may they fix their eyes on you as their help. Alyssa and Kyle can go many places and do things unimaginable with you by their side. You, Lord, are their refuge and strength, and their ever present help in trouble. Thank you, Lord, for your abiding presence with our children.
.Friday, October 25, 2013
A God Prompted Letter
Alyssa, Kyle and friends (2004)
Dear Lyssa,
As you came to mind today, I had a revelation that you and I are kind of going through similar things...believe it or not! I thought I'd share with you how I've been praying in my situation, and maybe it could be of encouragement to you.
One, I pray for the other person to change and see the light. Oh how the situation could quickly be remedied if they'd realize the error of their ways. HA! Especially if they could see how much it was hurting others someone else. We want people to recognize how they hurt us and are being "rude" and be sorry and willing to change. Keep praying that way, and I will too. God can do it!
Secondly, the other way I have been praying in my situation, and I find it a bit harder, is "God change me." I want Him to show ME the ways I need to change my expectation, my responses, and my heart. Ultimately, I think that will be the more important prayer in my situation. It's hard to learn how to love the unlovely, but God calls us to. So, I've been trying to find ways to intentionally love. People tend to change more through love than demand. It goes against every grain in me, but God calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. I don't always like doing it...or the response I get (or lack there of), but I know I'm being obedient to God's instruction to me.
God put us in these situations for a reason. Maybe its to grow us...and maybe its to love the other parties. For some reason He thought we could handle it and has purpose in our trials. My prayer for us both is that we become better (and not bitter) through the experience.
He's with you, baby! He loves you...walks beside you...and wants to work in and through your situation to make something beautiful in you. Trials aren't fun, but for some reason, they stretch and grow us into more what He wants us to be.
I'm praying for you and trusting for His intervention.
loving you...
Mom
Learning our part in hard relationships can often be challenging and takes us out of our comfort zones, but God is willing to walk with us as we are faithful to follow Him. And as we are obedient, God will take care of the rest.
Lord, help our kids in their relationships with others. Teach them to love abundantly, forgive freely, and pray diligently when relationships are strained and need mending. You call us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, yet that is often so against our human nature. Help Alyssa and Kyle to love supernaturally through your strength and leading. Bring people into their lives who will show them good what healthy relationships look like, and who are willing to work through conflict and misunderstandings, and show them love and forgiveness when they mess up. Lord, you give us people to love, and to love us in return. May we be good stewards of the friendships you give us. Amen.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Pleasing the Spirit
"The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will
reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the
Spirit will reap eternal life." Galatians 6:8
Oh the sinful nature is so easy to appease sometimes...
Anger.
Bitterness.
Selfishness.
Greed.
Envy.
And I'm really good at gluttony (ugh).
It takes more effort, a conscious decision, and so much discipline to choose the opposite responses to the sinful nature inside me. But kindness, humility, forgiveness, and patience are the responses God truly delights in. When we exude those things, we reflect Him living in us, and we reap the abundant and joyful life God has for us.
Oh to be "the one who sows to please the Spirit". That is this mother's prayer for her children (and herself) today!
Lord, you are so good, and you are in everything that is good. If you are living in our lives, we should reflect all that you are. Help Alyssa and Kyle to recognize when they are sowing to please their sinful nature, because if they don't it will reap destruction. Rather, I pray that they will the one who sows to please you in everything they say and do. For from you they will reap eternal life. Thank you for working internally in our children's lives, and carrying onto completion the work you are doing in their lives. Transform Alyssa and Kyle from the inside out, dear Jesus, and may they forever be your children! Eternal life in you is the greatest treasure of all!
Alyssa & Kyle 2004
Oh the sinful nature is so easy to appease sometimes...
Anger.
Bitterness.
Selfishness.
Greed.
Envy.
And I'm really good at gluttony (ugh).
It takes more effort, a conscious decision, and so much discipline to choose the opposite responses to the sinful nature inside me. But kindness, humility, forgiveness, and patience are the responses God truly delights in. When we exude those things, we reflect Him living in us, and we reap the abundant and joyful life God has for us.
Oh to be "the one who sows to please the Spirit". That is this mother's prayer for her children (and herself) today!
Lord, you are so good, and you are in everything that is good. If you are living in our lives, we should reflect all that you are. Help Alyssa and Kyle to recognize when they are sowing to please their sinful nature, because if they don't it will reap destruction. Rather, I pray that they will the one who sows to please you in everything they say and do. For from you they will reap eternal life. Thank you for working internally in our children's lives, and carrying onto completion the work you are doing in their lives. Transform Alyssa and Kyle from the inside out, dear Jesus, and may they forever be your children! Eternal life in you is the greatest treasure of all!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Doing the Right Thing
"He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord
and followed completely the ways of his father David, not turning aside
to the right or to the left." -- 2 Kings 22:2 (NIV)
Kyle sure likes his new pickup! And his dad is happy that we finally sold his old car. It was beginning to look like a used car lot at our house. Just one more vehicle for sale.
Yesterday was the day we finally got the truck licensed. Kyle's one question was if he had to have license places on the front and back of his truck. It seems it's "cool" to only have plates on the back. Who knew?! What we found out at the DMV, however, is that two plates are required. One on the back and one on the front.
Bummer for Kyle there is a "rule", and he knows the rule, because now that he knows, he has a responsibility to do the right thing. It's tempting to say, "but other people don't have a license plate on the front," and follow the crowd, even knowing it's wrong. All the time, there are these quandaries in life.
I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always follow the rules and laws in life, no matter how "crazy" they seem, but even bigger than that, I pray they always do what is right in the eyes of the Lord, no matter how hard it feels. Now that would make them some pretty wonderful children...God's children!
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always do what is right and follow completely your ways, not turning aside to the right or to the left. Make their hearts totally obedient to you...and for you, never swaying to follow the crowd or feelings that come and go. Always doing what is right and good will ultimately bring you glory. Thank you, Father, for Alyssa and Kyle and your continual work in their lives. I trust you with their hearts, minds and souls! Amen!
Kyle sure likes his new pickup! And his dad is happy that we finally sold his old car. It was beginning to look like a used car lot at our house. Just one more vehicle for sale.
Yesterday was the day we finally got the truck licensed. Kyle's one question was if he had to have license places on the front and back of his truck. It seems it's "cool" to only have plates on the back. Who knew?! What we found out at the DMV, however, is that two plates are required. One on the back and one on the front.
Bummer for Kyle there is a "rule", and he knows the rule, because now that he knows, he has a responsibility to do the right thing. It's tempting to say, "but other people don't have a license plate on the front," and follow the crowd, even knowing it's wrong. All the time, there are these quandaries in life.
I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always follow the rules and laws in life, no matter how "crazy" they seem, but even bigger than that, I pray they always do what is right in the eyes of the Lord, no matter how hard it feels. Now that would make them some pretty wonderful children...God's children!
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always do what is right and follow completely your ways, not turning aside to the right or to the left. Make their hearts totally obedient to you...and for you, never swaying to follow the crowd or feelings that come and go. Always doing what is right and good will ultimately bring you glory. Thank you, Father, for Alyssa and Kyle and your continual work in their lives. I trust you with their hearts, minds and souls! Amen!
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
No Clanging Cymbals
"If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal." 1 Corinthians 13:1
Angry attitudes.
Flippant remarks.
Harsh comments.
Course jokes.
Foul words.
Insensitive declarations.
Careless comebacks.
Clanging cymbals.
Lord, you live and move in our inner beings and evidence of you comes out in our words and actions. As we abide in you, and you in us, we become more like you. I pray that as you live in Alyssa and Kyle's hearts, and they spend time cultivating their relationship with you, you will be recognized in their speech, attitudes, and responses to the world around them. Tame their tongues and make them obedient to you. Dear Father, move Alyssa and Kyle to love deeply in word and deed.
Angry attitudes.
Flippant remarks.
Harsh comments.
Course jokes.
Foul words.
Insensitive declarations.
Careless comebacks.
Clanging cymbals.
Lord, you live and move in our inner beings and evidence of you comes out in our words and actions. As we abide in you, and you in us, we become more like you. I pray that as you live in Alyssa and Kyle's hearts, and they spend time cultivating their relationship with you, you will be recognized in their speech, attitudes, and responses to the world around them. Tame their tongues and make them obedient to you. Dear Father, move Alyssa and Kyle to love deeply in word and deed.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Monday, June 17, 2013
No Lies
"What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself." Ephesians 4:25
Kyle (1999)
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always speak truth. Lies are so harmful to relationships and keep us from representing You. May truth always be on their lips.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Monday, March 11, 2013
Protection from Pride
"But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the Lord his God..." 2 Chronicles 26:16
Baseball season is in full swing! (No pun intended. Ha!)
Oh how I love watching my boy do his thing on the field, even though there are times I struggle with the weather conditions and the busy schedule. I will always love cheering him on.
I haven't said much here, but Kyle made the Varsity team this year and we are so proud of him. We will continue to be in the stands cheering him on over the next months. Rain, snow flurries, or major heat waves, you'll catch me in the stands.
One thing I've been impressed with so far is that, even in making Varsity as a sophomore, Kyle doesn't flaunt his success, gloat about his excitement, or brag about his abilities. In fact, he seems to present quite the opposite (at least in my presence). Most people are unaware of his getting onto the Varsity team. Even after a good game, I find that Kyle is a little uncomfortable talking about the ways he did well. He kind of nods his head, gives a slight grin, and tries to change the subject.
Pride can so easily get in the way and leave an ugly taste in our mouth when we see it in others, yet can move so quickly from humility to haughtiness when it comes from our own lips. I hate it when I catch an over-the-top pride in myself.
Pride will mess up my sweet son and I pray that he will always remain humble, kind, and an encourager to others.
Lord, I pray that my son (and daughter with her successes) lives with humility, never letting success and power bring an ugly pride that leads to his downfall. Keep him humble in his successes, and sensitive to those around him, never making himself higher or better than the least person. Humility shines in more beautiful ways. I pray, dear Jesus, that Kyle will always give you the credit for his gifts and abilities, and never take them for granted.
Baseball season is in full swing! (No pun intended. Ha!)
Oh how I love watching my boy do his thing on the field, even though there are times I struggle with the weather conditions and the busy schedule. I will always love cheering him on.
I haven't said much here, but Kyle made the Varsity team this year and we are so proud of him. We will continue to be in the stands cheering him on over the next months. Rain, snow flurries, or major heat waves, you'll catch me in the stands.
One thing I've been impressed with so far is that, even in making Varsity as a sophomore, Kyle doesn't flaunt his success, gloat about his excitement, or brag about his abilities. In fact, he seems to present quite the opposite (at least in my presence). Most people are unaware of his getting onto the Varsity team. Even after a good game, I find that Kyle is a little uncomfortable talking about the ways he did well. He kind of nods his head, gives a slight grin, and tries to change the subject.
Pride can so easily get in the way and leave an ugly taste in our mouth when we see it in others, yet can move so quickly from humility to haughtiness when it comes from our own lips. I hate it when I catch an over-the-top pride in myself.
Pride will mess up my sweet son and I pray that he will always remain humble, kind, and an encourager to others.
Lord, I pray that my son (and daughter with her successes) lives with humility, never letting success and power bring an ugly pride that leads to his downfall. Keep him humble in his successes, and sensitive to those around him, never making himself higher or better than the least person. Humility shines in more beautiful ways. I pray, dear Jesus, that Kyle will always give you the credit for his gifts and abilities, and never take them for granted.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Commitments Keepers
"Don’t break your promises...Say only yes if you mean yes, and no if you mean no. If you say more than yes or no, it is from the Evil One." Matthew 5:33, 37 (New Century Version)
At the beginning of winter Kyle agreed to be our neighbor's snow shoveler all season long. Every time the ground turns white, he'll cross the street with his shovel, and get to work. The income it brings is a nice little bonus.
BUT.... It's easier to make that kind of commitment before the real snow begins to fall.
This week we had our fourth or fifth snow fall of the season (which is a lot for our neck of the woods) and Kyle wasn't too excited to go do his job. And my response? "Too bad, buddy, you agreed you'd be there every time in snowed!"
Keeping promises, doing what you say you'll do, and following through to the best of your ability is an important quality to practice and hold onto.
I sure want my boy to be known as a man of good faith, shining in honesty, commitment, and integrity.
Lord, you never break your promises, and for that I give you praise and thanks. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always keep their promises, and are careful to always keep their word. Sometimes that means being cautious in the things they say "yes" to, and sometimes it will mean doing things they don't want to do because they said they would. Give them the wisdom in both situations, Father. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle are known for their good word. If they say "yes", may they be faithful, and if they need to say "no" may it be out of wisdom and care. Honesty and commitment will reflect your presence and command of their lives. May Alyssa and Kyle always represent you well!
At the beginning of winter Kyle agreed to be our neighbor's snow shoveler all season long. Every time the ground turns white, he'll cross the street with his shovel, and get to work. The income it brings is a nice little bonus.
BUT.... It's easier to make that kind of commitment before the real snow begins to fall.
This week we had our fourth or fifth snow fall of the season (which is a lot for our neck of the woods) and Kyle wasn't too excited to go do his job. And my response? "Too bad, buddy, you agreed you'd be there every time in snowed!"
Keeping promises, doing what you say you'll do, and following through to the best of your ability is an important quality to practice and hold onto.
I sure want my boy to be known as a man of good faith, shining in honesty, commitment, and integrity.
Lord, you never break your promises, and for that I give you praise and thanks. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always keep their promises, and are careful to always keep their word. Sometimes that means being cautious in the things they say "yes" to, and sometimes it will mean doing things they don't want to do because they said they would. Give them the wisdom in both situations, Father. I pray that Alyssa and Kyle are known for their good word. If they say "yes", may they be faithful, and if they need to say "no" may it be out of wisdom and care. Honesty and commitment will reflect your presence and command of their lives. May Alyssa and Kyle always represent you well!
Friday, February 8, 2013
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.
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