Praying Scripture

God, you are a a safe place for Alyssa and Kyle to hide,
    and you're ready to help when they need you.
I pray that Alyssa and Kyle stand fearless at the cliff-edge of doom,
    courageous in seastorm and earthquake,
Before the rush and roar of oceans,
    the tremors that shift mountains.

You, our Jacob-wrestling God, fight for Alyssa and Kyle,
    God-of-Angel-Armies protect Alyssa and Kyle.

River fountains splash joy, cooling your city,
    this sacred haunt of the Most High.
God, you live here, the streets are safe,
    You are at Alyssa and Kyle's service from the crack of dawn.
Godless nations rant and rave, kings and kingdoms threaten,
    but Earth does anything he says.

You, Jacob-wrestling God, fight for Alyssa and Kyle,

    God-of-Angel-Armies protect Alyssa and Kyle.

Psalm 46:1-8

 

Give Them to Jesus

"Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you."  1 Peter 5:7

As a mom, I can't always take away my kids worries and fears, though I wish I could.  Sometimes I can alleviate the worry of an upcoming test with help and encouragement.  Other times, I can encourage them in fearful moments with a prayer or a hug.  However, Alyssa and Kyle are going to have to learn that there is One who can help them in bigger and better ways than I can.  His name is Jesus.

Learning to let God have our worries and cares will be an important life lesson as their concerns grow bigger and bigger; jobs, money issues, parenting, health issues, etc.  Surrendering it all to Jesus will grow their faith, develop their relationship with Him, and strengthen their resolve in hard times.  God uses those times in beautiful ways to draw us to Himself.

I pray that today, wherever and whenever Alyssa and Kyle have heavy burdens, they can let go and trust God!

Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle learn to let you have all their worries and cares, and know deep down that you are always thinking about them and watching over everything that concerns them.  When concern weighs heavy on their hearts, I pray that they come to you for wisdom, guidance, and peace in the midst of their concern.  On days, when they feel overwhelmed with their cares, I pray that they turn to you and trust you for your help.  You can shower them with hope, peace, and joy even in the middle of their messes.  Thank you, dear Jesus for your abiding presence, especially when we feel tired and alone.  You alone can handle all our worries and cares.

 

Facing A Fear

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  Joshua 1:9

There are many things in this life that I miss out on because of fear. 

This could have been one of those things.

Yes, I went zip-lining this weekend!

I just didn't like the heights factor of this adventure.

And I wasn't dressed appropriately.

Nor did I have the right shoes. (They duct taped my flip-flops onto my feet.)

Yet, every reason not to go, seemed to fade with reasoning.

Obviously my hubby wasn't so afraid...

But I faced my fears, with a bit of prodding, and thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon with my friends.  Had I let my fear win, I would have really missed out.

God gives us the courage to face those things in our lives that we want to avoid.  He strengthens. He holds.  He blesses.  I pray that when our kids face struggles, fears, and obstacles, that they will put themselves in God's very capable and strong hands, and depend on Him for His help. 

Alyssa and Kyle, be strong and courageous in all things!  For with Him all things are possible!  Just look at your mom, she went zip-lining!  Who would have thought?

(PS...I even took one hand off...for a second!)

Lord, thank you for helping your children face their fears and stand strong and courageous in the midst of hard things.  We don't have to tremble or be dismayed because you are with us wherever we go.  When Alyssa and Kyle have fears, I pray that they look to you for strength, protection, and help in their times of need.  Your presence helps us to face things that seem insurmountable.  With you, dear Jesus, we can scale a wall.  Thank you, for helping me to conquer my fears!  I pray that my example encourages Alyssa and Kyle to go out and face their fears as well.

Wordless Wednesday

photo credit: www.wallpaperhi.com

His Yoke

"The trees of the field will yield their fruit and the ground will yield its crops; the people will be secure in their land. They will know that I am the Lord, when I break the bars of their yoke and rescue them from the hands of those who enslaved them."  Ezekiel 34:27

 Kyle on an amusement park ride...

strapped up and ready to go!

"Part of God's consistent character is wooing the captive to freedom."  --Beth Moore, Breaking Free

So many things can keep us from experiencing a life of freedom and joy in Christ.  I look at my children's lives, and pray that God will keep them from being held captive by fears, depression, low self worth, dependence on drugs, alcohol or food...and the list goes on and on. Each and any one of those things will hold them back from living the abundant life God has planned for them, and replace the security He alone gives.

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:29-30

I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always live in the real existence of Christ's yoke!


Lord, I come boldly to your throne and pray on Alyssa and Kyle's behalf.  I pray that they will be secure in their land, and will know that you are the Lord.   Please break the bars of whatever yokes them to something or someone other than you, and rescue them from the hands of whatever enslaves them.  Remove, Lord, the fears that hold Alyssa and Kyle, and keep them from experiencing true freedom in their lives.  Bind them only to You.  You are consistent and faithful, loving each of your children, providing peace, a firm foundation, and courage to live life abundantly.  Lord, may Alyssa and Kyle sense your wooing, and your call to a life of freedom in you! 
 

Freedom in Christ

"The trees of the field will yield their fruit and the ground will yield its crops; the people will be secure in their land. They will know that I am the Lord, when I break the bars of their yoke and rescue them from the hands of those who enslaved them."  Ezekiel 34:27

 Kyle on an amusement park ride...

strapped up and ready to go!

"Part of God's consistent character is wooing the captive to freedom."  --Beth Moore, Breaking Free

So many things can keep us from experiencing a life of freedom and joy in Christ.  I look at my children's lives, and pray that God will keep them from being held captive by fears, depression, low self worth, dependence on drugs, alcohol or food...and the list goes on and on. Each and any one of those things will hold them back from living the abundant life God has planned for them, and replace the security He alone gives.

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:29-30

I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always live in the real existence of Christ's yoke!


Lord, I come boldly to your throne and pray on Alyssa and Kyle's behalf.  I pray that they will be secure in their land, and will know that you are the Lord.   Please break the bars of whatever yokes them to something or someone other than you, and rescue them from the hands of whatever enslaves them.  Remove, Lord, the fears that hold Alyssa and Kyle, and keep them from experiencing true freedom in their lives.  Bind them only to You.  You are consistent and faithful, loving each of your children, providing peace, a firm foundation, and courage to live life abundantly.  Lord, may Alyssa and Kyle sense your wooing, and your call to a life of freedom in you! 
 

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

There's nothing like hearing one of your children let off a blood curdling scream to give your heart a jump start.  This has happened to me on more than one occasion as a matter of fact.  Alyssa does not like spiders. And when I say she does not like spiders, I really mean she does NOT like spiders.

I hate to break it to her, but she's going to face a lot bigger things in life.  It could be conflicts, God's calling on her life, new jobs or experiences, or becoming a spouse or a parent.  They all could cause great alarm or fear.

My hope is that she remembers that God is with her.  Three times in the first chapter of Joshua, God says "be strong and courageous".   I'm guessing if God keeps saying it, that it's something that He really wants us to take hold of.

Joshua 1:6...Be strong and courageous...I will lead you.
Joshua 1:7...Be strong and courageous...Obey and I will give you success.
Joshua 1:8...Be strong and courageous...I am with you.

Oh, precious Jesus, help Alyssa and Kyle to be strong and courageous!

Guess what? I'm going to have to remember this lesson the next time I see a mouse.
That's when mom lets off her own blood curdling scream!

Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle will always be strong and courageous. I pray that they will not be terrified; nor be discouraged, for you will be with them wherever they go.  Mark their days with your strength, peace and hope.  Alyssa and Kyle can do all things through you who gives them strength!  Remove from them the spirit of timidity, and fill them with a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.  As they fix their eyes on you, dear Jesus, may be know you are always with them, and they have nothing to fear.
 

The Best Place to Go

If your law had not been my delight,
   I would have perished in my affliction. 

I will never forget your precepts,
   for by them you have preserved my life. 

--Psalm 119:92-93

I love God's Word.  Anytime I am struggling I can go there and find hope and comfort.  When I am lacking wisdom I open it's pages and find help and answers.  What a treasure it is in my life.  I'm so thankful that I don't have to live my life without it.

I pray that Alyssa and Kyle fall in love with God's Word too.  I hope that when they are going through hard times that they seek answers and comfort in the scriptures.  It will ultimately be the key to their survival through some of life's circumstances.

Lyss is in the midst of her senior year of high school.
Soon she will be making important life decisions...college major, church attendance, and who she is going to be "when she grows up".

Kyle has always had a natural wonder about the character of God.

One day, he too will be thinking about his future.

Then there is boyfriends and girlfriend stuff,

Conflict resolution help,

And answers for their fears.

Dear children, God's and His Word is THE place to go for the very best answers!

"There is one, even Jesus Christ, that can speak to thy condition"--George Fox

Lord, your Word is a precious gift to your children.  Thank you for this wonderful gift.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle fall in love with the Bible, for it is your Holy Word.  I pray that it is the place they run to when they need answers for the things they are going through in their lives.  When times are hard, may they seek You through your Word.  When they need answers to the questions they face in life, may they hunt through your Scriptures.  Your Word will offer comfort, peace, hope, answers, and joy as they take time to soak in it.  I pray that it becomes a living and active part of their lives.  
 

 

Freedom from Fear

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7

Shy babies...1998

I was a shy little girl, and in reality that shy little girl still lives in me. God, however, has done a work in me and has stretched me out of my “comfort zone”. I’ve learned to trust Him, and depend on this “spirit of power” that comes from Him.

I pray for that spirit of power in my children’s lives. They both started out shy like their mother. Lyssa’s kindergarten teacher promised me that she would get Lyss to talk to her within the first month of school, but on the last day of school, Mrs. Garner looked at me and said, “Well, I never got her to talk to me, but she’s a very good student.” Oh my. Saying “hi” to adults at church was ever so painful. And I began praying that that God would remove her “spirit of timidity” and replace it with His spirit of power!

I have seen Lyssa stretch herself and is growing into a confident young lady. God is good! Giving speeches at school, feeling free to ask questions and share concerns with her teachers, even going out for the student council knowing she’d have to give a speech for her election. God is instilling in her His power! I love that.

I pray that both my kids continue to grow in their confidence to be who God made them. To stand in front of people and speak their convictions. To face conflict, without being walked on, and without fear. I pray that as they seek God’s direction for the future of their lives, they will follow without trepidation, but go boldly wherever God sends them. And when fear does show its face, may they always look to the One who brings peace, strength, and power.


Dear Precious Father, you are the amazing Creator, the mighty Healer, and you’re in the business of changed lives. Thank you for creating my children in beautiful ways. Thank you for who they are and what they are becoming. Thank you for being a God who doesn’t want his people to live in fear, but wants them to live with power, confident in his love, and at peace in all the circumstances of life. I pray that where my kids have a spirit of fear or timidity, that you replace it with your spirit of power, and of confidence, and a belief that you’ve created them for great things. Where they feel weak, may they look to you for strength. Where there is fear, may they sense your peace. Where they doubt, may the fix their eyes on You and find the answers they need. Lord, fill my kids with You! Mark their lives by your presence! May they always live in your spirit of power!

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!

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.

Driving Fears

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

Yesterday, Alyssa survived her first night of Drivers Ed.  YAHOO!  

 

At 17, she is one of the oldest students in the class.  Part of the delay began because I wasn't ready to have a child driving, but the longer we put it off the more it became about Alyssa and her fear to drive.

So yesterday felt like one big step towards conquering a fear that has been nagging my girl for a couple of years. What freedom will come when she finally realizes that this is something she can do.  I know God goes with her through each twist and turn, parking challenge, and new lesson.

Now lets just pray she goes back to class tonight. 

Drive away that fear, dear Jesus!

Oh Lord, our God, take hold of Alyssa's right hand and speak tenderly in her ear, 'Do not fear; I will help you."  What blessed assurance she can have knowing that you are with her, you are mighty to save, and that with you she can do all things.  I pray Lord, that fear never take hold of Alyssa and Kyle in such a way that it keeps them from living abundant lives and following wherever you send them.  Help Alyssa and Kyle to be bold and trusting of your promises.  May they fix their eyes on you, and set their minds on the hope that you are their refuge and their strength, and their help in trouble.  Drive away those fears, sweet Jesus.

Cower, Shower Power

This is a re-post from January 2010.  I often still hear the shower curtain being pulled, and I laugh.  So, I was reminded to pray this prayer all over again. 

"I sought the Lord, and he answered me; 

he delivered me from all my fears."  Psalm 34:4

We all have fears.  Some of them are reasonable, yet some make no sense at all.  If used correctly, fear can help protect us from real harm, and cause us to make wise decisions.  However, more often than not, fear keeps us from experiencing all that God has in store for our lives.  Fear sometimes robs us of great things.

We sometimes laugh at Alyssa, because she has this "habit" that developed years ago out of a fear.  I honestly don't know what prompted her to be afraid, or even when it happened, but for years now whenever she walks into the bathroom she has to open the shower curtain.  I'm not sure why, except maybe to check and see if anyone is hiding in the shower.  No, we didn't ever let her watch the movie "Psycho", or frighten her by jumping out from behind the shower curtain when playing hide and seek.  It just seems to be one of those quirks.  An unreasonable fear that causes unreasonable actions.

My kids won't even go into the garage by themselves if it's dark.
Nor go up to the bonus when the lights are all off.
Fear.

I'm sure other fears will arise, and some of them won't be so unreasonable, but I'm guessing that at times these fears will keep them from following or doing what God has called them to do.  Fears will keep them from experiencing God's best, and living in peace and freedom that He desires for them.

We all have fears.  I'm just praying that God will deliver my kids from the unnecessary fears in their lives.  And in times of great anxiety, apprehension, or fear, they will turn to the God who will be their Protector, their Defender, and their Strength.

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, 

but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline."  

2 Timothy 1:7

Lord, you are the light of the world, and you dispel all darkness.  Please infiltrate my children's hearts and minds with your light, and dispel the darkness that brings them fear.  When they are afraid, dear Jesus, be their Protector, their Shepherd, their Guide.  Above all, be their hope and peace.  Where there is fear about their future, remind them that you are God and you have a plan.  Where there is fear about relationships, remind them that you are watching over them, and are the healer.  Protect my children Lord, from the enemy using their fears to keep them from all that you have planned for them.  Lord, dispel every fear and give my children your spirit of power.

AnxiousThoughts

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts."  Psalm 139:23

 Alyssa...and her scowl (ha!)...2010

This week has been filled with many moments where I have found one or both of my children in a state of worry or panic.  The end of the school year is on the downhill slide, projects are coming due, tests to be taken, and then there is prom, senior schedules, and needed internship plans.  It's easy to let those things become "anxious thoughts, and then they are debilitating to doing the best things. Overwhelming is the word that describes everything.  

"Taking our thoughts captive" becomes an important lesson, and handing our concerns to God, a lifeline.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."  Philippians 4:6

I'm praying this for Alyssa and Kyle today!

Lord, I know you are fully aware of the anxious thoughts of Alyssa and Kyle.  Be their peace through each stress, their hope when doubts are high, and their strength in each situation.  What a great thing it would be if they can learn at this young age to not be anxious about anything, and instead lay their burdens at your feet, and entrust you, and you alone, to take care of every details of their lives.  You alone are God, and you are present with them through each trial and storm.  Lord, remind them of your mighty strength today!

Yoke of Freedom

"The trees of the field will yield their fruit and the ground will yield its crops; the people will be secure in their land. They will know that I am the Lord, when I break the bars of their yoke and rescue them from the hands of those who enslaved them."  Ezekiel 34:27

 Kyle on an amusement park ride...

strapped up and ready to go!

"Part of God's consistent character is wooing the captive to freedom."  --Beth Moore, Breaking Free

So many things can keep us from experiencing a life of freedom and joy in Christ.  I look at my children's lives, and pray that God will keep them from being held captive by fears, depression, low self worth, dependence on drugs, alcohol or food...and the list goes on and on. Each and any one of those things will hold them back from living the abundant life God has planned for them, and replace the security He alone gives.  

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:29-30

I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always live in the real existence of Christ's yoke!


Lord, I come boldly to your throne and pray on Alyssa and Kyle's behalf.  I pray that they will be secure in their land, and will know that you are the Lord.   Please break the bars of whatever yokes them to something or someone other than you, and rescue them from the hands of whatever enslaves them.  Remove, Lord, the fears that hold Alyssa and Kyle, and keep them from experiencing true freedom in their lives.  Bind them only to You.  You are consistent and faithful, loving each of your children, providing peace, a firm foundation, and courage to live life abundantly.  Lord, may Alyssa and Kyle sense your wooing, and your call to a life of freedom in you! 

The Courage to Say "I Can"

"I can do all things through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13

Sister Christine, Great Grandma Re, baby cousin,

and Me (5 or 6 years old approx.)

Once upon a time there was...

• …a little girl who never thought she’d feel comfortable talking to people one-on-one, much less become a pastor’s wife who talks to everyone
• …a little girl who never expected to leave the safety of teaching children, and begin teaching adults instead
• …a little girl who never dreamed she would lead worship at church
• …a little girl who never imagined being asked to preach a sermon or speak at a retreat
• …a little girl who never believed in herself.

BUT…
God had different plans.
God makes all things possible.
God has made something beautiful out of my life.

I pray that when my kids face things in their life where they respond with “I can’t” or “I never will”, that God touches their life in such a way that it gives them the courage to say “I can” and “I will.” What an exciting adventure they will be on when they choose to go wherever God leads, no matter their fears, inadequacies, and roadblocks. I believe that God has great plans for my kids, and will not give them anything they cannot handle…as long as they depend on Christ for all that they need.

Courage is being willing to follow God no matter where He leads, and depending on Him each step of the way!

Lord, I pray that you instill big dreams in my children, no matter their fears and doubts. Guide them in overcoming the obstacles that they place in their own path, and fill them with courage, hope, and imagination to reach beyond their assumed capabilities. Precious Father, empower them to believe in themselves, and not only that, but to believe in You for your presence and strength. May they not live with a spirit of timidity, but live out in a spirit of power, love and self-discipline. You have great plans for them, Lord, and I pray they live their lives trusting in that promise. You are a good God, and I give you praise and thanks in advance for the work you’ll do in my children’s lives. And I also thank you for what you’ve done in mine.

(repost from October, 2009)

Scaling Those Walls

"With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.” 2 Samuel 22:30

“With my God I can scale a wall!”
           
                  “With my God I can scale a wall!”

“With my God I can scale a wall!”

Sometimes I need to drill that "mantra" into my head.  There are days when the walls seem so monstrous.

God gave me this verse on a particular day a couple of years ago, when He knew that I would need the assurance that I could do whatever He called me to do. I love it when His Word speaks in such powerful and personal ways. Ken was away in Morocco for 11 days, and I was left to hold down the fort here at home. The single parenting ended up being the easy part of what God had in store for me while he was gone. While he was away, our church family faced 2 family members dying, and I was asked to go pray with them in their final moments of life. I’d never even gone with Ken on these calls before, to see what to do and say, and here I was being sent out to be a minister to these people in their greatest time of need. Fear coursed through me, as I worried about my inadequacy and inexperience. Then I was reminded that “with my God I can scale a wall.” Repeating that verse, over and over again all the way to the hospital gave me the courage to face my fears and allow God to help me accomplish what I couldn’t do on my own. At the close of each visit, I felt like I had scaled a wall.

I don’t know what “walls” my kids will have to face today as they head to school, but I know that God is with them, helping them climb to the top. Where tasks are too hard, I pray that God gives them the tenacity to work it through and find success. If their friendships seem to hit a detour, I pray that God is with them, filling them with wisdom, peace, and strength. Or when fear creeps into their hearts, I pray that they are reminded that with God, they can do all things.

Scaling walls is hard work, but with God, all things are possible! Grab a hold of Him, dear ones, and depend on His safety and strength to get you to the top of the wall.


Lord, with you we can scale walls. What a promise to hold onto when the walls seem too high or too hard! Your Word is full of reminders of your faithfulness, your help, and your strength. I pray that my children know the reality of those truths in their lives, and have learned that with you all things are possible. Remind them that they can do all things through you who gives them strength. Lord, when they are aware of the walls before them, may they know whom to look to for help, and may they sense your presence near them in real and precious ways. Lord, speak reassurances into their hearts, ears and minds, that remind them of your love, your help, and your peace. Teach them that they can scale any wall with you by their side. No wall is impossible to scale with you as the guide!

Praying Scripture: Psalm 23

You, Lord, are my children's shepherd;
      They will  have all that they need.
 You let them rest in green meadows;
      you lead them beside peaceful streams.
 You Lord will renew their strength.
 You Lord will guide them along right paths,
      bringing honor to your name.
 Even when my children walk
      through the darkest valley,
   They will not be afraid,
      for you are close beside them.
  Your rod and your staff
      protect and comfort them.
You prepare a feast for your sons and daughters,
      in the presence of their enemies.
   You honor them by anointing their head with oil.
      Oh Lord, their cups will overflow with blessings.
 Surely your goodness, Lord, and unfailing love will pursue my children
      all the days of their lives,
   and they will live in your house, Lord,
      forever.

God is Bigger

"When I am afraid, I will trust in you." Psalm 56:3

Bedtime has always been a challenge in our house. Since the day Alyssa was born, it has been the hardest part of this mother's day. Now that my kids are 16 and 14, it's much easier, just much later. I think I'll be tired until they leave home.

One of our bedtime challenges had to do with the light...a nightlight would not do the trick. I'm not sure I ever came to realize what fear was driving Alyssa's need to always have a light on when she slept...the BIG light. Our neighbors were always concerned that she just stayed up all hours of the night. We would try to turn off her light as we headed to bed ourselves, but sometimes we would get "caught" and reprimanded, or Alyssa would wake up later and turn it on again. I'm assuming that light dispelled some fears.

Oddly enough, today she wants to sleep in complete darkness. I'm so glad she grew out of whatever fear was plaguing her back then.

Our lives are full of different fears. Some rational, and some not. My fear of mice is probably a bit irrational, but it's still a fear. I pray, that whatever the fear, my children will put their trust in God, and look to Him for peace and strength. He is bigger than any of their fears. He will be their light, in the darkness.

Veggietales says it best with this song...

God is bigger than the boogie man

He's bigger than Godzilla, or the monsters on TV

Oh, God is bigger than the boogie man

And He's watching out for you and me.

Lord, you are a big God. You are always present, You are faithful, and You love your children. Who better can we trust? Lord, help us to put our trust in you, and not be afraid. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on you, when other things cloud our vision. Lord, when my children find themselves fearful, help them to look to you for peace and strength. Help keep them from letting fears dictate their decisions, relationships with others, or their ability to do whatever you call them to do. I know you take some of our fears away, and others you help us face. Lord, I know that my children can do anything with you by their side. Be their strength, their hope, and their peace. Trust is built through relationship and time, so I pray that they press on to know you better and believe in you as God of their lives. Thank you, Lord, for being bigger than any boogie man!

Spider Screams

"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

There's nothing like hearing one of your children let off a blood curdling scream to give your heart a jump start.  This has happened to me recently as a matter of fact.  Alyssa does not like spiders. And when I say she does not like spiders, I really mean she does NOT like spiders.

I hate to break it to her, but she's going to face a lot bigger things in life.  It could be conflicts, God's calling on her life, new jobs or experiences, or becoming a spouse or a parent.  They all could cause great alarm or fear.

My hope is that she remembers that God is with her.  Three times in the first chapter of Joshua, God says "be strong and courageous".   I'm guessing if God keeps saying it, that it's something that He really wants us to take hold of.

Joshua 1:6...Be strong and courageous...I will lead you.
Joshua 1:7...Be strong and courageous...Obey and I will give you success.
Joshua 1:8...Be strong and courageous...I am with you.

Oh, precious Jesus, help Alyssa and Kyle to be strong and courageous!

Guess what? I'm going to have to remember this lesson the next time I see a mouse.
That's when mom lets off her own blood curdling scream!

Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle will always be strong and courageous. I pray that they will not be terrified; nor be discouraged, for the you will be with them wherever they go.  Mark their days with your strength, peace and hope.  Alyssa and Kyle can do all things through you who gives them strength!  Remove from them the spirit of timidity, and fill them with a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.  As they fix their eyes on you, dear Jesus, may be know you are always with them, and they have nothing to fear.