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

 

An "Overprotective" Mom

Oh I laughed at this commercial.  After I got over that Kyle said this was me.


 Praying for Alyssa and Kyle's relationships with the opposite sex. Sometimes I want to be an overprotective and nosy mom, but ultimately trusting God the watch over them is a better plan.


 

In Over Their Heads

I was thinking of this following story the other day and I was reminded I had written about it back when I first started my blog.  Oh it was a traumatic mom day.

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."  1 Corinthians 10:13

(Photo Credit)


My only excuse was my post-pregnancy hormones.  Alyssa's only excuse was that she was 2 1/2 years old. Kyle was only a couple of weeks old, and so he really had nothing to do with this story, except for the fact that he was the cutest little boy around. 

It was a Sunday afternoon after church, and our family headed to the local Mexican restaurant for lunch with a few families from our church.  Of course, I can't remember anyone who was there now.  I was too traumatized, I guess.  We were close to the end of our meal and little Alyssa was starting to get antsy.  A restaurant is really not a fun place for a 2-year old.  Everything just takes too long.  As the meal drew to a close, and I was focused on a conversation with a friend, Alyssa decided to stick her head through the back of her chair.  Unfortunately, she was unable to get her head back out.

All of a sudden Alyssa was in a panic, and crying because she was stuck.  I spent a few seconds trying to release her, but to no avail.  She was truly stuck.  Next thing I know everyone at our table began to stir, and we all began to work together to try to figure out how to make the rescue.  Everyone except me anyway...After my initial discovery that Alyssa was stuck and that I couldn't get her out, I just stood back and let the tears flow in worry.  (That's why I blame the hormones!)  My baby was trapped in the chair.

With a screwdriver found by the restaurant staff, and the chair taken a part, Alyssa finally became free from her head-lock.  Oh what sweet relief for both mother and daughter.

Life will be full of temptations, but God's Word promises that He will always provide a way for us to stand up under them.  We will never get in such a tight place, that we can't get out.  I'm thankful for that promise, and the hope it gives this mother, as she realizes all the temptations her children may face in life.

Oh God, watch over my dear children.  And if they ever get in over their heads, please be their rescuer!

Oh Lord, how you love your children.  I'm sure that your heart aches when you see them trapped by the things of this world.  You offer us great hope when in the fact that no temptation will seize our children except what is common to man. And You are faithful; you will not let them be tempted beyond what they can bear. But when they are tempted, you will also provide a way out so that they can stand up under it.  Thank you, dear Jesus, for watching over our children, and being with them in those hard times.  In those moments where they can get into a tight squeeze, show them the way out, dear Jesus.  Be the voice whispering in their ears, "This is the way; walk in it."   I love you, dear Jesus.  You are our blessed Rescuer!

 

Eye Protection

 "Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy, your whole body also is full of light.  But when they are unhealthy, your body also is full of darkness." --Luke 11:24




When my kids were little I could control most of the things that they would see and experience on a day to day basis. I'd monitor their television intake and could turn the channel at any moment, was picky about the movies they'd bring home, and be choosy about the books that they'd check out from the library.  Protecting their eyes from seeing the unlovely things of this world was a big job sometimes.

But today, now that Alyssa and Kyle are 19 and 16 years old, I find the job a bit out of my hands.  The many different electronic devices in each child's possession add to the challenge as well.  Yet, even at this age (and my age, truth be told), guarding what their eyes see is of vital importance.  When our eyes are healthy, our spirit is more in tune with His Spirit, and like Luke 11:24 states, our body is "full of light". 

I will still try to influence what is watched on television in our home, and the electronic activity to the best of my ability, but at this point the best thing I can do is fall on my knees and ask God to protect my babies, and move their spirit to cringe at things they shouldn't see (or hear, or read) for eye protection ultimately protects the heart.

Lord, please protect Alyssa and Kyle's eyes for they are the lamp of their body. When their eyes are healthy, their whole body also is full of light.  And when they are unhealthy, their body is full of darkness.  Help Alyssa and Kyle's hearts to be sensitive to what is not right, good, and holy, and desire the things that you find pleasing.  Move them to hunger for holiness, dear Savior, and give the the drive to seek after you.  You can bring them such great pleasure and delight, and they will find a great joy in you that they will not find in the world.  Lord, please be Alyssa and Kyle's eye protection I pray.

 

Wordless Wednesday

photo credit: www.wallpaperhi.com

Wordless Wednesday

 

His Surrounding

  Alyssa and Kyle (1999)

Those who trust in God
    are like Zion Mountain:
Nothing can move it, a rock-solid mountain
    you can always depend on.
Mountains encircle Jerusalem,
    and God encircles his people—
    always has and always will.
(Psalm 125:1-2 The Message)

For the angel of the Lord is a guard;
    he surrounds and defends all who fear him.
(Psalm 34:7 NLT) 


You hem me in behind and before,
    and you lay your hand upon me.
(Psalm 139:5 NIV) 


Oh Precious Savior, surround my children.  Hem them in behind and before.  Surround and guide Alyssa and Kyle all the days of their life.  Your presence is always with them, and as a mom, that allows me to rest and find confidence. Lord, protect Alyssa and Kyle physically as they drive, play sports, and just in the dailiness of life  Guard them emotionally in relationships and with their self image.  And watch over Alyssa and Kyle spiritually, growing their trust in you, developing their faith, and keeping the Enemy from putting doubts in their hearts and minds.  Lord, encircle Alyssa and Kyle in everything they say and do today!  They are yours completely and I trust you with their lives.

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Daily Protection

"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one."  John 17:15

I remember in vivid detail the day I left Alyssa at home by herself for the first time.  I know that Lyss barely blinked an eye, but me?  Worry, fret, and concern. 

Here I was sitting at Kyle's t-ball game and she was home all alone.  Did I teach her all she needed to know to be safe?  Would she answer the door if someone knocked?  What if the house caught on fire?  (Dramatic thoughts, I know.)  What if she got hurt?  Would she make wise choices about what to do? 

Even back then I had a cell phone and it didn't ever leave my hand in case she called with a need. 

Now my "babies" are older, they are driving, one is in another state going to school, and I've had to learn to trust that they are okay when they are away from me.  It doesn't help to lock them up and keep them from the world (though the thought has crossed my mind a time or two), Therefore my prayer becomes more about their protection, wisdom and strength as they go out and face life, and believing that God is with them, and the Holy Spirit is the voice guiding them. 

I still ask for a phone call here and there though.
Yes, I'm one of "those" moms. (Picture the rolling of eyes.)

Lord, you are the great Protector, our refuge and strength.  You are the one with my children at all times and are watching over them as they are coming and going.  This world is full of trouble, but you are the one who overcomes.  Oh Father, protect Alyssa and Kyle, especially from the evil one of this world.  Keep the enemy from any hold on their lives and own them as your son and daughter.  Speak tenderly into Alyssa and Kyle's lives and lead them down paths of righteousness.  Give them wisdom and discernment in order to make choices that bring abundant life.  Lord, watch over my babies.

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Boo-Boos and Owies

"This sickness is not fatal. It will become an occasion to show God's glory by glorifying God's Son."  John 11:4

 Kyle with a broken wrist (2011)

I remember fevers panicking this new mom,
Boo-boos on the knees and tears that needed comfort,
A broken finger before the first day of kindergarten,
A black eye from a baseball collision,
Raspberries from sliding into second base,
Or a broken wrist from trying to be safe at home plate.
Yesterday, it was oral surgery to remove four wisdom teeth.

Boo-boos, owies, and not-feeling-so-good moments.

A mom just hates to see her babies not feeling good or experiencing pain.  God doesn't promise me that they will never be harmed or free from illness.  I've been fully aware recently how fragile life truly is.  I'm praying for health and protection, and that in those occasions of sickness or hurt that they (and I) allow them show God's glory through our lives.

Lord, thank you for the health you have blessed Alyssa and Kyle with.  You have given them strong minds and bodies that can be used to show your glory.  Through the years you have provided much protection and healing and I give you thanks.  I ask, Father, that you continue to walk beside Alyssa and Kyle, giving them healing from sickness and protection from harm.  I am thankful for the life you give day after day. 

 

Life and Death Choices

"When good people turn back from living good lives and plunge into sin, they'll die for it. And when a wicked person turns away from his wicked life and starts living a just and righteous life, he'll come alive."  Ezekiel 33:18-19 (The Message)

Camping find...Grammy, Alyssa & Kyle (1998)

Choices.  Every day our children are faced with making choices.
Will they make wise choices?
Safe choices?
Moral choices?
Choices that bring life?

This last week was one full of our kids experiencing freedom. One child went off to church camp and another child spent a few nights in a motel with his baseball buddies. While our children were out and about without us, they were in positions to make their own choices.

I'm praying, good choices.

Each day that passes brings us closer to them leaving home (Lyss only has a month and a half before college begins), and the choices that they make then won't necessarily have consequences with mom and dad. They are even probably getting to the point where they could care less what we think about their life choices.  However, those choices could have life and death kinda consequences. Each decision or action, will either bring our children closer to God, or take them farther away from His presence and will.

I pray that they will always choose to honor God in all that they say and do.

Choose wisely, my babies!

Lord, please watch over our children, and protect them.  Move your Spirit in them, prodding them to always make choices that keep them safe, and reflect your presence in their lives.  Live and move in their hearts, Jesus.  May they always hear your voice behind them saying, "This is the way, walk in it."  Remove any fantasy from them, Lord, that make them think that things not of you bring happiness and pleasure.  Help them to find their deep joy and eternal satisfaction only in you.  Protect them from others who may lead them astray.  Lord, when Alyssa and Kyle turn back from living good lives and plunge into sin, they'll die for it. But if they come to a place in their lives and need to turn away from their wicked life and they start living a just and righteous life, they'll come alive.  What a beautiful promise of unconditional love, and the gift you give us, Lord, when we are repentant.  Thank you, for your forgiveness, and making us new when we choose turn back to you!  Lord, I pray that our children always choose You!

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Coming and Goings

The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."  Psalm 121:8

Yesterday was Kyle's first day driving without parents in the car. Yes, he is now a licensed driver!  I've got two of them!  Wowza.

I remember that feeling of fear the first time I let Lyss drive off by herself.  It's kind of hard to let them go off on their own the first time. I may worry, fret and let my thoughts go places they shouldn't, and will try instead to go to prayer until I get the required text that lets me know he  has arrived safely...much to his dismay.  What peace that comes over me when my phone lets off a sound and I read the words "I'm here."

I think Kyle will enjoy the freedom that comes with driving, just like his sister did, but for a while (or maybe forever) I'll pray that God watches over his coming and going. 

And congratulations to my son on this big milestone in his life!

Lord, I am in awe that your eyes range throughout the earth and you watch over your children's comings and goings.  There's no better truth for a parent to hold onto.  Each day our children are gaining more and more independence and freedom, and our out of our reach to protect, guide and hold onto.  As Alyssa and Kyle are out and about, please keep watch over them.  Spread your hand of protection around them and cover them with your angels.  Go with them down every path, dear Jesus, and always be by their side.  You are their God, and you love them dearly, and for that I put my complete trust in you!

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Addictions

"Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise."  Proverbs 20:1

 My name is Tresa and I'm an addict.

Coffee.

Chocolate.

Food.

Though they are addictions I don't stress about and worry over too much, they can easily become unhealthy habits for me. I'm thankful that drug and alcohol addiction has never been an "issue" in my life.  Oh, how I pray that our kids stay clear of addictions that will mess up their lives.

Lord, protect my babies from harmful addictions that could ruin their relationships, careers, or physical bodies.  Keep these things from having an appeal to even try and experiment with.  Give Alyssa and Kyle courage to say "no" to temptation and peer pressure.  And when they are tempted, help them to stand up under it.  Lord, may you alone be the one thing that fills every empty space in Alyssa and Kyle's lives, and the thing that they hunger and thirst after like no other.  May they taste and see that you are good!

 

Wordless Wednesday (Sorta)

 

Praying Scripture

Lord, how sweet to know that Alyssa and Kyle 
   are are always with you,
 and you hold them by your right hand.
You guide Alyssa and Kyle with your counsel,
   and you will take them into glory.
Whom does Alyssa and Kyle have in heaven 
     but you, Lord?
   And earth has nothing they desire besides you.
Lord, Alyssa and Kyle's flesh and heart may fail,
   but You are the strength of their hearts
   and their portion forever. 
 Those who are far from you will perish;
   you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.
But as for Alyssa and Kyle, 
it is good for them to be near You.
   Please help Alyssa and Kyle to make you, 
Sovereign LORD, their refuge;
   and they will tell of all your deeds. 

 (Psalm 73:23-28)

 

Baby Blues

"Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand."  Psalm 73:23

Once upon a time (1997)

I was being sentimental yesterday as I thought about how my babies are no longer babies.

<<sniff-sniff>>

All of a sudden a memory flashed through my mind.of a conversation I had with Kyle over a book we were reading.  I wish I remembered what it was because it was a catalyst for a fun back-and-forth conversation over the next couple of years.  The book posed the thought that there would be one day when I would no longer be able to pick up my "little" boy.

<<sniff-sniff>>

Well, I haven't tried to pick Kyle up lately, but I'm pretty sure he's grown "too big" for a cuddle, and I know that I can hardly pick him up. 

<<sniff-sniff>>

My babies are no longer babies!

Lyssa is about to graduate from high school.
And prom is around the corner.
Last night she even went to the midnight showing of "Hunger Games",
And drove herself to and from.  Oh my.

<<sniff-sniff>>

Then there is my little "freshman"!
He potentially could have his drivers license in 2 months.
WOWZA!

Time is flying!

But I know God is watching over them, and when I can't pick them up, I can trust that He holds them in His hands!

Lord, I put my confidence and trust in your continual presence in Alyssa and Kyle's lives.  I know that when I can't pick them up when they fall, or comfort them when they hurt, or carry them through the storms of life, that you are with them and your right hand holds them.  There is nowhere that Alyssa and Kyle can go to avoid your Spirit, and no way they can flee from your presence,  You are always with them, and your hand will always guide them.  Today, if they need you to pick them up, I pray they will call on your name and wait expectantly for your strength and might to cradle them in their time of need.  Thank you, for my "babies", dear Jesus, and thank you for being there for them when I cannot.