Showing posts with label Guidance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Guidance. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Monday, March 25, 2013
Soft Hearts for Wisdom
My son, if you accept my words
and store up my commands within you,
turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding,
and applying your heart to understanding,
and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
and find the knowledge of God.
--Proverbs 2:1-5
So, I ask God to give Alyssa and Kyle soft hearts towards their parent's wisdom. Beyond that, I pray that their hearts are open to others' wisdom as well...including God's. It's our human nature to struggle sometimes against others' insights, or put higher confidence in our own ideas, and we cringe or act out in our pride, and we miss out on some valuable nuggets of wisdom. Oh, I hate it when I do that!
I like this quote:
"The next best thing to being wise oneself
is to live in a circle of those who are"
--C.S. Lewis
Surrounding oneself with wise people, and being willing to listen to the wisdom of others, is a sign
of maturity and growth.
Lord,
your wisdom is the richest of all wisdom. Thank you for sharing it
with your children when we seek it. Your Word is full of rich
treasures! I pray, Lord, that my children accept your words, and store
up your commands within their hearts, turning their ear to wisdom and
applying their heart to understanding. Lord, If they call out for
insight and understanding, and search your hidden treasures, they will
find You in beautiful ways. I also pray, Lord, that Alyssa and Kyle
have hearts that are open to their parents wisdom and instruction. Keep
them from becoming closed off, or bitter, when we instruct in certain
directions, and trust that we always have their best interest at heart.
Give them great pleasure in listening to others' wisdom, and good
judgment on who and what they listen too. Thank you, Father, for the
promise that when we seek you, we will find you! Lord, be the first place they go for wisdom, and the loudest voice they hear speaking in their ear.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Made to Do
"Do not neglect your gift...Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress." 1 Timothy 4:14-15
I'm rereading one of my favorite books, "When Crickets Cry" by Charles Martin. If you want to read a good book, I'd encourage you to pick it up. As I read it, I came across a paragraph that made me think of my kids.
Watching God's plan unfold will be one of life's greatest pleasures.
Lord, your plans for Alyssa and Kyle stand firm forever, the purposes of your heart through all generations (Psalm 33:11). They are plans to prosper, and not to harm, plans to give them a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). In his heart a man plans his course, but you, Lord, determine his steps (Proverbs 16:9). I'm in awe that you have gifted each of my children for something special and design their lives to serve you, reflect you, and love others. Help them to recognize your purpose and leading in their lives, dear Jesus. Follow Alyssa and Kyle all the days of their life, always speaking in their ear, "this is the way, walk in it." (Isaiah 30:21). Thank you, Lord, that there is something that they are made to do, and it will not be hidden from them. God, you are so good!
I'm rereading one of my favorite books, "When Crickets Cry" by Charles Martin. If you want to read a good book, I'd encourage you to pick it up. As I read it, I came across a paragraph that made me think of my kids.
What is it that God has made my children to do? Oh, how I can't wait to see. I'm sure they are getting nudges here and there from God. Whatever it is, great or small, it's going to be perfect for them. As long as they are following God's lead they will live in abundant joy and peace."People marvel at the genius of Mozart because he supposedly wrote "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" at the age of three and composed his first first symphony at the age of twelve. And yes, of course he was a genius, but another way to look at it is that he just discovered early what it was God made him to do. That's all. For some reason, God gave him a little extra, or a little something different, and Mozart found out what that was and then got a head start on using it. Of course, he was brilliant, but that's not the point. The point is he knew, and then he got to work.
I was no Mozart, and I had to work at it, but I never doubted what God made me to do..." (When Crickets Cry, by Charles Martin, page 76)
Watching God's plan unfold will be one of life's greatest pleasures.
Lord, your plans for Alyssa and Kyle stand firm forever, the purposes of your heart through all generations (Psalm 33:11). They are plans to prosper, and not to harm, plans to give them a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). In his heart a man plans his course, but you, Lord, determine his steps (Proverbs 16:9). I'm in awe that you have gifted each of my children for something special and design their lives to serve you, reflect you, and love others. Help them to recognize your purpose and leading in their lives, dear Jesus. Follow Alyssa and Kyle all the days of their life, always speaking in their ear, "this is the way, walk in it." (Isaiah 30:21). Thank you, Lord, that there is something that they are made to do, and it will not be hidden from them. God, you are so good!
Friday, August 3, 2012
In Sync
"Our lives get in step with God and all others by letting him set the pace, not by proudly or anxiously trying to run the parade." Romans 3:28 (The Message)
I've enjoyed watching the Olympics this week. So much talent, strength, and practice invested! I've been particularly fascinated by the rowing and diving.
I've enjoyed watching the Olympics this week. So much talent, strength, and practice invested! I've been particularly fascinated by the rowing and diving.
Focus.
Precision.
Unity.
Each movement in sync
with their partner.
I want to be that way with my Savior. In step with His pace and plan.
And I pray that for Alyssa and Kyle too! As they go about their days, and make plans for their future, may they always fix their eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of their faith!
Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle get in step with you and let you set the pace for where they go and what they do, and not proudly or anxiously try to run the parade themselves. May they choose to live in sync with you. To do that Alyssa and Kyle will have to spend time with you often, listen intently, and live lives of obedience. Following you will bring great success, a growing courage, and strength to handle all things. Thank you, Lord, for being our greatest partner in life!
Friday, June 15, 2012
Ears that Hear
"Then Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9
My kids are probably like any other kid. Sometimes they don't
hear well. Or maybe better said, they hear well, but sometimes choose
not to listen. I mean, if its not something they WANT to hear, its just
easier to pretend like they missed what I said.
But beyond asking them to pick up their rooms, bring me their laundry, or feed the dog, there are times where I have important things to say that I hope they choose to hear. Things that will save them from calamity, failure, or harm. Things that will help their relationships, get to know God more, or help them succeed as they become adults.
Sometimes mothers (or fathers...or our Father) know best...so open those ears, dear ones!!!
Check out those ears...the giraffes, not Alyssa's! (2005)
But beyond asking them to pick up their rooms, bring me their laundry, or feed the dog, there are times where I have important things to say that I hope they choose to hear. Things that will save them from calamity, failure, or harm. Things that will help their relationships, get to know God more, or help them succeed as they become adults.
Sometimes mothers (or fathers...or our Father) know best...so open those ears, dear ones!!!
Kyle (2005)
Lord, thank you for the sense of
hearing. What joy it is to hear a baby's laugh, a parent's blessing,
or the sound of the ocean. There are sometimes, however, things that we
don't want to hear. Lord, help Alyssa and Kyle's ears be open to
hearing the wisdom of others, especially you. When you are tenderly
calling their name, speaking your wisdom, or giving them your love, may
they recognize your voice. May Alyssa and Kyle be receptive to
encouragement, patient with discipline, and understanding of people's
(true and wise) advise. I praise you, dear Jesus, for your presence and
activity in our children's lives.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Friday, April 27, 2012
Plans Galore
"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Proverbs 15:22
High School graduation is just around the corner,
and not far behind is the beginnings of Lyssa's college adventure.
Though at times makes me cringe, planning is the theme of our days.
Schedules.
Scholarships.
School needs.
Summer wants.
And celebrations all around.
Plans galore.
What I am finding is that my kid doesn't really want parental counsel.
And who does a mom and dad turn to when they can't figure it all out?
Learning to ask for counsel is an important lesson in life.
I'm praying that our kids get over their know-it-all-ness,
and seek out the wisdom of others in their lives.
Then their plans just may succeed.
Lord, I so want Alyssa and Kyle's plans to succeed in life. They will fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they have a better chance of success. Give them wise and willing people to help them on this journey. Open Alyssa and Kyle's ears that they may hear and take seriously the advise of others, and a wisdom to know what is right and true. Plans are many and constant, and we ask for your leading and guiding, knowing and believing that you know all the days ordained for them, and have plans to prosper them. Alyssa and Kyle are yours, dear Father, and I pray that they heed your call and leading on their lives.
High School graduation is just around the corner,
and not far behind is the beginnings of Lyssa's college adventure.
Though at times makes me cringe, planning is the theme of our days.
Schedules.
Scholarships.
School needs.
Summer wants.
And celebrations all around.
Plans galore.
What I am finding is that my kid doesn't really want parental counsel.
And who does a mom and dad turn to when they can't figure it all out?
Learning to ask for counsel is an important lesson in life.
I'm praying that our kids get over their know-it-all-ness,
and seek out the wisdom of others in their lives.
Then their plans just may succeed.
Lord, I so want Alyssa and Kyle's plans to succeed in life. They will fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they have a better chance of success. Give them wise and willing people to help them on this journey. Open Alyssa and Kyle's ears that they may hear and take seriously the advise of others, and a wisdom to know what is right and true. Plans are many and constant, and we ask for your leading and guiding, knowing and believing that you know all the days ordained for them, and have plans to prosper them. Alyssa and Kyle are yours, dear Father, and I pray that they heed your call and leading on their lives.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Ears to Hear
"Then Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9
Our kids are probably like any other kids. Sometimes they don't
hear well. Or maybe better said, they hear well, but sometimes choose
not to listen. I mean, if its not something they WANT to hear, its just
easier to pretend like they missed what I said.
But beyond asking them to pick up their rooms, bring me their laundry, or feed the dog, there are times where I have important things to say that I hope they choose to hear. Things that will save them from calamity, failure, or harm. Things that will help their relationships, get to know God more, or help them succeed as they become adults.
Sometimes mothers (or fathers...or our Father) know best...so open those ears, dear ones!!!
Check out those ears...the giraffes, not Alyssa's! (2005)
But beyond asking them to pick up their rooms, bring me their laundry, or feed the dog, there are times where I have important things to say that I hope they choose to hear. Things that will save them from calamity, failure, or harm. Things that will help their relationships, get to know God more, or help them succeed as they become adults.
Sometimes mothers (or fathers...or our Father) know best...so open those ears, dear ones!!!
Kyle (2005)
Lord, thank you for the sense of
hearing. What joy it is to hear a baby's laugh, a parent's blessing,
or the sound of the ocean. There are sometimes, however, things that we
don't want to hear. Lord, help Alyssa and Kyle's ears be open to
hearing the wisdom of others, especially you. When you are tenderly
calling their name, speaking your wisdom, or giving them your love, may
they recognize your voice. May Alyssa and Kyle be receptive to
encouragement, patient with discipline, and understanding of people's
(true and wise) advise. I praise you, dear Jesus, for your presence and
activity in our children's lives.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Stumbling Blocks
"For you, O Lord, have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from
tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the Lord in the
land of the living." Psalm 116:8-9
Sometimes there are big things in the middle of our path that trips us up. And sometimes we can trip over our own two front feet. I am proof that you can get really hurt, just by a slip of a foot. Four years ago, I lived on crutches and a brace for a couple of months because of one misstep.
There are a lot of things in life that will try to trip up our children. The enemy wants to keep them from a life of peace, happiness, and fullness in Christ. Everyone's stumbling blocks are different. Some are out in the open for them to see. And some sneak up on us while we are unaware.
I am praying that my children's feet stand firm, and walk confidently down the narrow path God has chosen for them, skipping over the stumbling blocks placed in their path. Holy Spirit, lead and guide them in the way they should go.
Lord, thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit, and that you lead us, alert us, and protect us from the stumbling blocks in our path. I pray that you deliver our children's soul from death, their eyes from tears, and their feet from stumbling. Protect them, dear Jesus, from the stumbling blocks that the enemy uses, and places in their path, to keep them from you. Help their eyes see clearly the things that aren't pleasing to you. Remove the attraction to evil, that which is unholy, and all that keeps them from your presence. Lord, put a hedge of protection around their eyes, ears, hands, and their heart, mind and soul. Create in them a clean heart, and renew a right spirit in them. Amen.
Kyle #12 (2010)
Sometimes there are big things in the middle of our path that trips us up. And sometimes we can trip over our own two front feet. I am proof that you can get really hurt, just by a slip of a foot. Four years ago, I lived on crutches and a brace for a couple of months because of one misstep.
There are a lot of things in life that will try to trip up our children. The enemy wants to keep them from a life of peace, happiness, and fullness in Christ. Everyone's stumbling blocks are different. Some are out in the open for them to see. And some sneak up on us while we are unaware.
I am praying that my children's feet stand firm, and walk confidently down the narrow path God has chosen for them, skipping over the stumbling blocks placed in their path. Holy Spirit, lead and guide them in the way they should go.
Lord, thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit, and that you lead us, alert us, and protect us from the stumbling blocks in our path. I pray that you deliver our children's soul from death, their eyes from tears, and their feet from stumbling. Protect them, dear Jesus, from the stumbling blocks that the enemy uses, and places in their path, to keep them from you. Help their eyes see clearly the things that aren't pleasing to you. Remove the attraction to evil, that which is unholy, and all that keeps them from your presence. Lord, put a hedge of protection around their eyes, ears, hands, and their heart, mind and soul. Create in them a clean heart, and renew a right spirit in them. Amen.
Friday, March 2, 2012
The Best Place to Go
If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
I would have perished in my affliction.
I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have preserved my life.
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".
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.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Ready or Not!
"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me." Jeremiah 29:11-13
Our girl is filling out college applications.
(Am I ready for this?)
She's taken the SAT and ACT.
The senior pictures are done.
And yesterday, she brought home the order form for her cap and gown and graduation announcements.
(I really don't think I'm ready for this.)
As Lyss heads into these new adventures around the corner, I'm praying that she waits on the Lord and allows Him to direct her steps.
(And that I have the strength to handle it all!)
Oh Lord, direct Alyssa's steps and guide her down the paths you have planned for her life. Show her the ways she should go, and give her success in all that she does. Thank you, Lord, that the plans you have for her are good and are to give her a future and a hope. When Alyssa prays, may she believe with her heart that you will listen, and know that when she looks for you wholeheartedly, she will find you. Watch over our dear girl, in her comings and goings, and forever guide her towards good things. Thank you, dear Jesus!
Our girl is filling out college applications.
(Am I ready for this?)
She's taken the SAT and ACT.
The senior pictures are done.
And yesterday, she brought home the order form for her cap and gown and graduation announcements.
(I really don't think I'm ready for this.)
As Lyss heads into these new adventures around the corner, I'm praying that she waits on the Lord and allows Him to direct her steps.
(And that I have the strength to handle it all!)
Oh Lord, direct Alyssa's steps and guide her down the paths you have planned for her life. Show her the ways she should go, and give her success in all that she does. Thank you, Lord, that the plans you have for her are good and are to give her a future and a hope. When Alyssa prays, may she believe with her heart that you will listen, and know that when she looks for you wholeheartedly, she will find you. Watch over our dear girl, in her comings and goings, and forever guide her towards good things. Thank you, dear Jesus!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Asking, Seeking and Knocking
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Mathew 7:7-8
Sometimes mother's worry. I know, surprise, surprise. Hence today's topic. I'm asking, seeking, and knocking (down the Lord's door) that my dear daughter will start asking, seeking and knocking. The girl needs a career internship...120 hours worth to graduate in about 7 months.
Sure, it's doable
Yes, she's got a few leads.
Of course, I've talked to her about it.
I know I need to let her succeed or fail on her own (of course, if she fails, there are some consequences that her mom has to live with).
I also know that she's been one busy girl (volleyball just finished up a week ago).
BUT let's get asking, seeking and knocking. Please, oh please!
Trusting and believing that God has just the right answer, and He's going to show it to Lyss as she seeks Him!
But can we hurry it up a bit!
Lord, thank you that we can come to you with our worries and thoughts, and you promise that you'll answer when we call on you, and we will find you when we seek you. Propel Alyssa and Kyle to look to you for wisdom, to ask you for help in the decisions they need to make in life, and to seek the answers you have for their questions. Give them motivation, dear Jesus, to look to you always and follow you wherever you lead. Obedience to you is better than sacrifice. Make Alyssa and Kyle's hearts always open to your leading and ready to do their best in every opportunity placed before them. Lord, may they always continue asking, seeking and knocking!
Sure, it's doable
Yes, she's got a few leads.
Of course, I've talked to her about it.
I know I need to let her succeed or fail on her own (of course, if she fails, there are some consequences that her mom has to live with).
I also know that she's been one busy girl (volleyball just finished up a week ago).
BUT let's get asking, seeking and knocking. Please, oh please!
Trusting and believing that God has just the right answer, and He's going to show it to Lyss as she seeks Him!
But can we hurry it up a bit!
Lord, thank you that we can come to you with our worries and thoughts, and you promise that you'll answer when we call on you, and we will find you when we seek you. Propel Alyssa and Kyle to look to you for wisdom, to ask you for help in the decisions they need to make in life, and to seek the answers you have for their questions. Give them motivation, dear Jesus, to look to you always and follow you wherever you lead. Obedience to you is better than sacrifice. Make Alyssa and Kyle's hearts always open to your leading and ready to do their best in every opportunity placed before them. Lord, may they always continue asking, seeking and knocking!
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