Live Generously

“To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously."  Luke 6:27-30 (The Message)

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!


 

Strong in the Lord!

"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus."  2 Timothy 2:1

 Kyle, 3 years old

My son is growing up!  *sniff-sniff*

Kyle had a job interview this week.  I don't know how he'll manage a job and baseball, but I'm proud of him for giving it a try.  He seemed to go into the interview without even a hint of nervousness (though he could have been hiding it from his mom).  Why should he be nervous, man?!  He's one great kid!

  Kyle, 17 years old

But what I also know is this: Kyle has a confidence and determination in who God has made him to be.  He's got big things ahead as he continues to stand in God's strength and trust that He has great plans for his life.

Kyle is going to be successful when he leaves his future in God's hands.  Even if he gets this summer job or not.


Lord, all that you've created is good, and that even includes each of your children.  Thank you for fearfully and wonderfully making each of our children, giving them each such beautiful gifts and talents.  In those gifts, I see an amazing confidence and strength.  Continue to build in Alyssa and Kyle a determination that they can do anything as long as you're beside them, providing all the strength, wisdom, and peace that they need to complete their job, move forward, and excel.  Help them to always look past their fears and doubts, and depend on you to lead, guide, and provide all that they may be lacking, in order to stand firm in their callings.  Never let fear and anxiety overtake them.  May their confidence always come from you, and in the knowledge that they are your child and you are with them, loving them no matter the outcome.  I know you have great things planned for their lives, and those plans aren't for harm, but they are for good.  Oh, dear Jesus, I can't wait to see those plans unfold in their lives.  May their confidence come from knowing and following you!

 

Today

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
    for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;
    therefore I will wait for him.”
 Lamentations 3:22-24



Another week begins.  I'm trying to not be consumed by my to-do list and schedule, and talking with Lyss last night, I know she is in the same boat as she concludes her semester in college.

Today, I will live in peace. 
Today, God's compassion won't fail.
Today, He is my portion.
Today, I will wait on Him.

Lord, because of your great love we are not consumed, for your compassions never fail.  They are new today, even in the busyness and stress of the season.  Great is your faithfulness, Savior!  I will continue to remind myself that you are my portion and I will wait for you.  May the same be true for Alyssa and Kyle today.  Be their strength as this new day and new week begin.  Be Alyssa and Kyle's portion as they wait on you.

 
 

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.

 

With His Strength

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

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.

 .

A Soarin' Kind of Day!

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? Yahweh is the everlasting God, the Creator of the whole earth. He never grows faint or weary; there is no limit to His understanding. He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless. Youths may faint and grow weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint."  Isaiah 40:28-31 HCSB

Today marks Alyssa and Kyle's first full week of college. I think it's probably too early to be tired and weary, but after a long summer break, the hard work of going to school each day, and with the need to get up early each day, I'm guessing my kiddos are dragging.

I pray that Alyssa and Kyle wake up to face one more day, cause YAHOO, it's Friday! I know mama is happy!

Lord, you are the everlasting God, the Creator of the whole earth, and I stand in awe that you never grow tired or weary!  Give Alyssa and Kyle strength today where they are weary.  Renew their strength and help them to soar through their day.  Thank you, Precious Savior, for helping us to run and soar!


 

Wordless Wednesday

 

A Noisy, Noisy World

This is what the Sovereign Lord,
    the Holy One of Israel, says:
“Only in returning to me
    and resting in me will you be saved.
In quietness and confidence is your strength.  Isaiah 30:15

Life has felt so "noisy" lately.  So, yesterday was a day to seek out some quiet.

Noise seems to be a constant companion.  Music, television, people's chatter, and even my home appliances are always providing a constant hum of background noise.  I always laugh that the moment Alyssa or Kyle get into my car, they have to turn on some tunes.  Quiet some how feels uncomfortable, out of the ordinary, and awkward.  

But quiet can bring rest and peace.  And somehow it gives strength. Quiet allows our mind to actually meditate, reflect, and respond to God.  Silence opens the door to hearing the Holy Spirit.  The more noisy life is, the more intentional we need to be at pulling away. 

It reminds me of a song I love...

"Teach me to stop and listen,
Teach me to center down.
Teach me to hear in silence,
Things that are never found.

Teach me to be collected,
Teach me to be in tune.
Teach me to be directed,
Silence will end so soon.

Then when it's time for moving,
Grant it that I may bring,
To every day and moment,
Peace from a silent spring." 



Not sure my kids will ever "get it", in between their phones, computers, and "tunes", but there in the quiet, they might just find a sweet, sweet sound!



Lord, teach Alyssa and Kyle to stop and listen, teach them to center down, and teach them to hear in silence.  Thank you that you and your strength are found in the quietness.


 

Stepping Up to the Plate

Thanks to my dear hubby who wrote today's blog/prayer!  You're the best, sweetheart!

Kyle batting! (April 2013)

 

Yesterday morning I (Ken) volunteered to help with our monthly “sermon in a sack."  This is a children’s object lesson during the morning worship service.  The twist is…the speaker does not know in advance what the object is.   Fortunately, I had a quick idea once the object was taken out of the sack – a softball.  I encouraged our kids to know that just because we may have struck out last time at the plate, we can still come up to bat with a fresh new start and opportunity.  God’s grace is always available to give us a new at bat as we are willing to ask Him for fresh wind and fire.

Heavenly Father, I pray that you will help Lyssa and Kyle today to never grow tired of doing good.  When they are faced with discouraging circumstances, I ask you would give them a fresh perspective, new strength and a faith to move forward with courage and grace.  I pray today you will help Lyssa and Kyle to wait upon the Lord.  Please help them today to run and not grow weary and to walk and not be faint.  Let them find their strength in You.

 

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.

 

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", 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.
 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Heavy Loads

For nothing will be impossible with God." Luke 1:37 (ESV)

Kyle and his pumpkin...2003

The above scripture is interesting in different versions...

One version says "Nothing is impossible for God!" (CEV or GOD's WORD translation).  And oh, how I believe that to be true.  But all the other versions leave me with the hope that with God nothing is impossible for us.

Our kids will face many challenges in life that seem way too big to handle, but with God I know that they can do it!  And over time, and with experience, I'm thinking they will not only learn that they are stronger than they think, but they will learn that they can trust God to be with them.

Some days the task will be too heavy to take on, but with God all things are possible!  (Matthew 19:26, Mark 10:27, Luke 18:27)

Lord, there will be many things in Alyssa and Kyle's life that seem impossible, but your Word offers a life-changing hope.  With you everything is possible.  All those things that feel heavy, too hard, or difficult beyond our own means, are not impossible with your help.  Lord, be near Alyssa and Kyle.  Be their strength, their hope, and their reason to keep on going when it's easy to think about giving up.  You are all powerful, all knowing, and always present, and we have much to give you thanks for.  Amen.
 

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)

 

Wordless Wednesday

No Mountain Too High

"I will go before you and will level the mountains."
Isaiah 45:2

Alyssa and Kyle making the climb (2005)

I remember the first time we took our kids to Camel's Back Park here in Boise.  Alyssa and Kyle's eyes were huge, as they took in the hill we were encouraging them to climb.  Of course, they experienced no fear as they took on the challenge and made their way to the top of the hill. Taking one step of the climb at a time, they were soon on top of the world.

There will be "mountains" that seem too big to climb in their lives.  Today the mountains look like end of the semester finals, relationships with friends, or busy schedules.  Later in life, the mountains may feel a bit more impossible.

I pray that my kids look at those challenges, much like they did the hill at the park...possible, as long as they take one step at a time.  And better yet, I pray that they recognize God is with them, and He will take some of those "mountains" and make them just little bumps in the road.

As long as they "fix their eyes" on Him, they will conquer those big mountains.

 On top of the mountain!

Oh Lord, help our children to find peace, strength, and success as they face mountains in their lives.  When the journey seems too hard, I pray that they learn to fix their eyes on you, who is the author and perfecter of their faith, and experience your peace that passes all understanding.  Grant them the courage to take one step at a time, the wisdom to follow where you lead, and look to you when fear seems to stop them in their tracks.  I pray that they trust you, dear Jesus, whenever they come face to face with a mountain that seems too big.  If it be your will, take those mountains and level them.  I praise you, Father, for your near and precious presence in our lives. 

In the Hustle and Bustle

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:29-31



So much busyness. Not only am I praying that we can survive it all, I am praying that we can thrive as well. I’m praying that while we are dashing from here to there, running to this activity or that, on top of trying to get everything done, that we are still taking the time to enjoy this season and the presence of Christ. This is the season of His birth, and I don’t want to miss the celebration and worship because of all the hustle and bustle.

(At least school finals are coming to a close, and Christmas break is about to begin! I have to admit I'm ready for school to be out...and I'm not even in it!)

Lord, give rest to the weary, and may we find joy in the precious times of worshipping and celebrating you this season.

Lord, you are my strength and my song. You are my hope, my joy, and my reason for living. This season should be one marked by celebration, worship, and even rest. In the busyness of Christmas, may we not forget to fix our eyes on you, our Savior. Be with us as we dash here and there, and remind us of our purpose and calling to shine you in all that we do. Help us to be a light to everywhere we go. May we not forget to treasure you as the greatest gift of all. As we hope in you, renew our strength! Thank you, Lord, for this day and all that it holds.

Wordless Wednesday

School Strength

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)








School is picking up and homework is getting deeper.  Some days it feels a little overwhelming...and I'm not even the student!  I know that my kids can make it through anything that comes their way, but some days I think they need some added strength.

Breaking the binky habit...seemed torture.
Learning to sleep through the night...oh what a killer.
Riding a bike...nearly impossible.

At least that's how it felt at the time. Some days  I'd go back and redo those struggles to avoid  the trials of today.

Research papers, speeches, and calculus problems that seem impossible.

I pray that when it all seems "too hard" to Alyssa and Kyle, that they depend on the strength God can give them.

Lord, whatever Alyssa and Kyle have, and wherever they are, may they know that they can make it through anything with you, who makes them who they are.  You are their strength and hope.  You give wisdom and guidance when they call on your name.  I pray, dear Jesus, that when things get hard, you will be there with Alyssa and Kyle, pulling them through.  Help them to fix their eyes on  you, and to call on you when they feel overwhelmed, frightened, and alone.  You are the giver of all we need.  Thank you for being the One Alyssa and Kyle need.


 

Praying Scripture: Joy in Challenges

 Photo taken by Lyss...

of Kyle making a shot!

This is my prayer today...

Dear Jesus, help Alyssa and Kyle to consider it a sheer gift when tests and challenges come at them from all sides. Under pressure, their faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So, though it is challenging, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so they become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.

When Alyssa and Kyle don't know what they're doing, I hope that their first response is to pray to you Father. You love to help. Alyssa and Kyle will get your help, and won't be condescended to when they ask for it. Alyssa and Kyle can ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. Let them always ask in faith. 

If Alyssa and Kyle meet a testing challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with You, the reward is life and more life.    (James 1:2-7, 12)