Posts
Today, I am posting this devotion instead of the usual "Saturation Saturday" article. It is a word in due season for me as I hope it will be for you. I had written it a few months ago and it now ministers to me in a very special way. Funny how God can take my own words to teach me something. Maybe they weren't my own words at all, Huh?
Isaiah 51:16- "I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand- I Who set the heavens in place, Who laid the foundations of the earth, and Who say to Zion, 'You are my people.' "
You may do a word study on "Steadfast" and "Endurance" to enhance your understanding of what God wants us all to learn; The same God Who covers us under His protecting hand...Who leads us through change safely...Who guides us every step of the way...Who grants us the faith to have endurance. He Who put the heavens in place loves us and wants the best for us. Enjoy!
Read: By your steadfastness and patient endurance you shall win the true life of your souls.
(Luke 21:19 AMP)
Have you ever had a dream? Not the kind that slips into your mind at night as you sleep; I mean a true vision for your life. A mission from God.
I have those dreams. Lots of them. Our children are full of those dreams, too. But, they look at them in an entirely different way than we parents do. They see them as something they can actually accomplish. They see them as a challenge and they are eager to conquer!
I saw a perfect example of that childlike perseverance while I was lying on the beach the other day. When I had arrived a couple hours earlier, the surface of the sand was pristine. Beautiful and white. I set up my "spot", greased up with sunscreen, and positioned myself for a nice relaxing afternoon. I must have zoned out for a while, because when I opened my eyes, the clean pristine beach had been covered over with mounds and mounds of seaweed. It went on endlessly as far as my eyes could see in both directions.
My mom and I noticed a little girl. As we watched her, we realized she was on one of those missions only accomplished through childlike faith. She meticulously picked up armload after armload of seaweed and ran to the water's edge to toss it back in. She had a vision of depositing every last piece of that messy stuff right back into the ocean where it belonged. She did not see it as impossible, though to onlookers, it seemed a daunting task beyond any hope of completion. In her mind, she saw the end result: a nice clean beach that she could be proud of! She had hope! She had endurance! She had perseverance! She had a vision!
I don't think you would ever see an adult trying to do what that determined little girl was doing. We would see it as useless. Why even try to take on something so tedious, so impossible.
You see, kids look at something like that with possibility thinking; Nothing is beyond their accomplishment as far as they are concerned. They are born with a natural faith. If they have an idea, you can bet they are going for it; full speed ahead! They don't ever think of the obstacles.
God created us to be dream-catchers! Who do you think He gives us all those great ideas? Even those little 'inklings" that tell us to bless someone, give away some money, or speak to that stranger. I know me. I am too eager to second-guess those little "inklings", not to mention the big dreams. I tend to focus on the obstacles and the seeming unlikeliest of those big dreams ever coming true. Most adults do.
God is willing to provide us with all we need to carry out His plans for us. But, we usually want to see the whole blueprint before we even get started. That's not really how He works. In Genesis 12, God told Abraham to pick up and go to a land that He would show him. Abraham went. He didn't ask how, when or where. He just went. He just had faith he would get to the land God had set aside for him. He didn't have the slightest idea where he was headed in a physical sense. He just knew in his heart what wonderful blessings were waiting for him there. (Wherever "there" turned out to be.) He certainly faced obstacles on the journey, but he just kept trudging through the mire to complete the mission the Lord had given him.
Go ahead. Write down those dreams. Write down the awesome possibilities and blessings that await you when you get there. Don't ignore those "inklings". And, DO NOT focus on the obstacles. Instead of seeing the endless piles of seaweed, envision the pristine, white beach. Work hard and be patient. Your perseverance will pay off! You will get to that land, that true life, the Lord has waiting for you!
Prayer: Create in me a clean heart, O God, and give me the faith of a child, that I may have a persevering and steadfast spirit within me.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Love and Blessings,
Starr
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Monday, August 4, 2008
Change
Change.
Change is often Exciting.
Change is often Intimidating.
Change is often Unexpected.
Change is Always Inevitable.
Even so, I don't usually adapt well to it; Not a good trait for me to exhibit, because My family is facing quite a few changes. Some good. Some we aren't sure are good at all.
For this one thing though, I am forever thankful: Jesus Christ is ALWAYS the same (Hebrews 13:8).
He is my strength when I am weak.
He is my refuge when I am afraid.
He is my constant in this world of change.
I am glad I have Him to hold on to when change sneaks up on me when I least expect it.
Otherwise, I would go into a tailspin. I would lose control. I would hide in fear.
Funny how you think some things will always be a certain way, then they up and, you know..... change.
Please pray for my family as we face a world of new opportunities. Some we are excited about. Some we are leery to step into. Some things we are reluctant to let go of.
One thing I know is that God is in complete control of our lives. We want Him to be. We would not have it any other way. Because, after all, He NEVER changes!!!
Change is often Exciting.
Change is often Intimidating.
Change is often Unexpected.
Change is Always Inevitable.
Even so, I don't usually adapt well to it; Not a good trait for me to exhibit, because My family is facing quite a few changes. Some good. Some we aren't sure are good at all.
For this one thing though, I am forever thankful: Jesus Christ is ALWAYS the same (Hebrews 13:8).
He is my strength when I am weak.
He is my refuge when I am afraid.
He is my constant in this world of change.
I am glad I have Him to hold on to when change sneaks up on me when I least expect it.
Otherwise, I would go into a tailspin. I would lose control. I would hide in fear.
Funny how you think some things will always be a certain way, then they up and, you know..... change.
Please pray for my family as we face a world of new opportunities. Some we are excited about. Some we are leery to step into. Some things we are reluctant to let go of.
One thing I know is that God is in complete control of our lives. We want Him to be. We would not have it any other way. Because, after all, He NEVER changes!!!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Saturation Saturday
Welcome once again to our special Saturday Soaking in God's Word. I'm so glad you joined me today!
This week, I have faced a varying schedule. I am usually pretty routine about how I spend my days; Certain days for certain things. Don't misunderstand, though. I am about as unsystematic as they come, but I basically do the same thing every week, in a very chaotic way! Go figure.
I had a rare opportunity Thursday to spend the day with a dear friend. I even got another friend to babysit! Talk about rare. That is something I NEVER do. Taking time for myself is a rarity.
The time my friend and I relished together was so refreshing. Over lunch, we had a conversation concerning our tendency to get blown out of the water when things don't go according to our "plan for the day". One little unexpected bump in our schedule can get us in a tizzy. Funny for two Christian women who completely trust the Lord and His wisdom, isn't it?
Do you ever find yourself feeling that way? I think most people do. Probably we women most of all.
God has laid on my heart this week to pour over Psalm 34 on a daily basis. I have read it several times each day. God has given me much insight through those words. Today, on this Saturation Saturday, I will post them here for you, also, to be drenched in.
Does your schedule leave you feeling dry? Do you lean on God when things go askew? Do you stop and give Him praise in the midst of the chaos? Steep your dehydrated self in His Words. Let Him speak to your spirit. Dive in with me:
Psalm 34 (AMP)
v1) I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
(Even when things get all thrown off schedule)
v2) My life makes it's boast in the Lord; let the humble and afflicted hear and be glad.
(I will bless Him in my coming and in my going as an example of His goodness)
v3) O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.
( Let's praise Him together in every circumstance!!)
v4) I sought (inquired of) the Lord required Him [of necessity and on the authority of His word], and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.
(I boldly speak with the authority of His word out of my need for Him and He acknowledges my faith!)
v7) The Angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him [who revere and worship Him with awe] and each of them He delivers.
(He is always with me, even when I don't see Him working. He is standing in the gap for me!)
v8) O taste and see that the Lord [our God] is Good! Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) is the man who trusts and takes refuge in Him.
( People will see me as blessed and joyous! They will desire what I possess! I lean on His wisdom every day and he frees me from distress!)
v9) O fear the Lord, you His saints, [revere and worship Him]! For there is NO WANT to those who truly revere and worship Him with Godly fear.
(I will want for nothing if my desire is for Him above all else!)
v14) Depart from evil and do good; seek, inquire for, and crave peace and pursue (go after) it!
( I will go about my day serving others in His name; Thirsting for His peace and His provision. He will fill me!)
v17) When the righteous cry out for help, the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their distress and troubles.
( How cool and awesome is that!!!)
v18) The Lord is close to those who are of a broken heart and saves such as are crushed with sorrow for sin and are humbly and thoroughly penitent.
( My God forgives me of my faults and heals me when I am broken before Him.)
v19) Many evils confront the [consistently] righteous, but the Lord delivers Him out of them all.
( I am not promised a life of ease, but I am promised deliverance by a God of mercy!)
v22) The Lord redeems the lives of His servants, and none of those who take refuge and trust in Him shall be condemned or held guilty.
( Once again...how cool and awesome is that? SELAH)
I pray you will have a Saturday submerged in His love and His grace! Do something radical today...get out of your comfort zone. He is right beside you and wants to lead you to undiscovered places! Dive in!
Love and Blessings,
Starr
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Moments Filled With Beauty
My garden is not without a few weeds here and there, but to me, it is beautiful. I am inspired every day when I walk outside to water my plants and enjoy the beauty of God's creation. Maybe it is just because my marigolds are the most low maintenance thing in my life right now!
When I planted my flowers this spring, I wanted my garden to be a place of inspiration to all who walk past it. Since I teach piano lessons in my home and also operate a beauty salon in my basement, there are a lot of individuals who have the opportunity to see my garden on their way into my house. Why not take advantage of that and bathe each one of them in God's Word?
Psalm 34 verses 1-3 are some of my favorite scriptures in the Bible. Here is what it says in The Amplified:
v1) I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
v2) My life makes it's boast in the Lord; let the humble and afflicted hear and be glad.
v3) O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.
You wouldn't believe how many conversations about our Lord have sprung up from the vision people get of my garden! Isn't it wonderful? They see, they get inspired, they get joy-filled, they smile!
We bless Him together as we learn music. We boast of His goodness and loving-kindness as we explore new hairstyles. He is magnified in my home as I greet my visitors. What a perfect way to bring to fruition Psalm 34!
I have a calendar that I turn over every day. On the pages are inspirational words that touch my heart as I begin each new morning. Today, the words inspired me to take some photographs of my garden and share them with you.
Under each photo, I will place a caption from my calendar's verse today. I hope you are inspired just as my other visitors are as you, too, enjoy my garden of "smiles".
I Wish You
Some Quiet Time For Dreaming
An Unexpected Pleasure
Moments Filled With Beauty
May You Have A Day To Treasure!
Do All The Good You Can, By All The Means You Can
In All The Ways You Can, In All The Places You Can
At All The Times You Can, To All The People You Can
As Long As Ever You Can!
From My home to yours, Have a beautiful day in Jesus!
Love and Blessings,
Starr
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Tag, I'm it!!
Well, I've been tagged by my buddy Sonya over at Truth4thejourney http://www.truth4thejourney.blogspot.com/! You all will have to forgive me as I do not yet know how to add links to the text of my blog except by the old-fashioned way.
The game has been fun to follow and now I get to participate!! Alright!!!!
These are the rules:
1) Link to the person who tagged you
2) Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below)
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them (This is only a game)
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up
Here are the six VERY random things about me, myself and I:
1) I am addicted to, and I mean ADDICTED in the most severe way to Dr. Pepper. There....I've said it. (Rather, I've typed it).
2) I adore stealing an afternoon nap when at all feasible amidst the chaos of my life.
3) I am shy when I first meet you, but hold on tight, 'cause after we are friends, I will talk your head off!
4) I have been known to forget what I am saying in mid sentence. (Please tell me I am not the only one....PLEASE!)
5) What is it I am supposed to be doing again?
6) Oh, yeah ...and I am not a natural blonde (it comes from a tube) even though I have all the traits of a true "blondie".
Now, Your job is to keep all the above to yourself. (Just kiddin'!)
Really, Your job is to visit all these wonderful ladies whom I am about to tag and encourage them as your read their six random things, OK?
A) Dana, my lovely hilarious friend over at Filled With Laughter (http://www.danamelton.blogspot.com/) is one of my dearest friends. We attend church together, laugh together ALOT and our kids are the best of friends. Visit Dana when you need a good dose of holy cheer!
B) Natalie over at http://www.koinoniacommunity.blogspot.com/ is my buddy from church as well and a terrific writer with lots of posts that make you ponder things. She has 2 lovely little girls who are also friends with my little man. One of the most giving people I know.
C) Joanne from http://onesoblessed.blogspot.com/ is my greatest encourager. We met at She Speaks and I truly believe God placed us together. I will consider her a friend for life. She is one of the best writers I have ever had the privilege of knowing. You will miss out greatly if you don't visit her. She will make ya laugh too! (Go and grab a glass of sweet tea before you sit down to read her blog.)
D) I also met Lynda at She Speaks. We saw each other at the Bloggers Reception and hit it off from the get-go. Her new blog is up and running at http://www.lubylu.wordpress.com/. She is doing a wonderful job and her dear husband encourages her to write. He saw a gift in her and I certainly see it too!
E) Heather has a testimony like no other I have ever heard. It is AWESOME!! She has been through so much and uses it all to glorify the Great God whom we serve. She doesn't hesitate one bit to give Him all the credit for bringing her to where she is today. You cannot read her blog without wanting to just jump up and shout to Him for His great healing power and His loving-kindness. She is a precious young lady. I had the honor of meeting her in person at She Speaks and she just glows with the love of Christ. Visit her at http://www.swallowingamoose.wordpress.com/
F) Last, but certainly not least, is Kay over at http://www.thrivechristian.blogspot.com/. We met at She Speaks trying to find "Kannapolis A". I think God had us on that wild goose chase just so our paths could cross. You will enjoy the wisdom she has to share. A charming lady indeed!
Have fun blog-surfing! Give these gals a day or two to write their random six things, but don't forget to check them out.
Have a blessed day!
Starr
The game has been fun to follow and now I get to participate!! Alright!!!!
These are the rules:
1) Link to the person who tagged you
2) Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below)
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them (This is only a game)
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up
Here are the six VERY random things about me, myself and I:
1) I am addicted to, and I mean ADDICTED in the most severe way to Dr. Pepper. There....I've said it. (Rather, I've typed it).
2) I adore stealing an afternoon nap when at all feasible amidst the chaos of my life.
3) I am shy when I first meet you, but hold on tight, 'cause after we are friends, I will talk your head off!
4) I have been known to forget what I am saying in mid sentence. (Please tell me I am not the only one....PLEASE!)
5) What is it I am supposed to be doing again?
6) Oh, yeah ...and I am not a natural blonde (it comes from a tube) even though I have all the traits of a true "blondie".
Now, Your job is to keep all the above to yourself. (Just kiddin'!)
Really, Your job is to visit all these wonderful ladies whom I am about to tag and encourage them as your read their six random things, OK?
A) Dana, my lovely hilarious friend over at Filled With Laughter (http://www.danamelton.blogspot.com/) is one of my dearest friends. We attend church together, laugh together ALOT and our kids are the best of friends. Visit Dana when you need a good dose of holy cheer!
B) Natalie over at http://www.koinoniacommunity.blogspot.com/ is my buddy from church as well and a terrific writer with lots of posts that make you ponder things. She has 2 lovely little girls who are also friends with my little man. One of the most giving people I know.
C) Joanne from http://onesoblessed.blogspot.com/ is my greatest encourager. We met at She Speaks and I truly believe God placed us together. I will consider her a friend for life. She is one of the best writers I have ever had the privilege of knowing. You will miss out greatly if you don't visit her. She will make ya laugh too! (Go and grab a glass of sweet tea before you sit down to read her blog.)
D) I also met Lynda at She Speaks. We saw each other at the Bloggers Reception and hit it off from the get-go. Her new blog is up and running at http://www.lubylu.wordpress.com/. She is doing a wonderful job and her dear husband encourages her to write. He saw a gift in her and I certainly see it too!
E) Heather has a testimony like no other I have ever heard. It is AWESOME!! She has been through so much and uses it all to glorify the Great God whom we serve. She doesn't hesitate one bit to give Him all the credit for bringing her to where she is today. You cannot read her blog without wanting to just jump up and shout to Him for His great healing power and His loving-kindness. She is a precious young lady. I had the honor of meeting her in person at She Speaks and she just glows with the love of Christ. Visit her at http://www.swallowingamoose.wordpress.com/
F) Last, but certainly not least, is Kay over at http://www.thrivechristian.blogspot.com/. We met at She Speaks trying to find "Kannapolis A". I think God had us on that wild goose chase just so our paths could cross. You will enjoy the wisdom she has to share. A charming lady indeed!
Have fun blog-surfing! Give these gals a day or two to write their random six things, but don't forget to check them out.
Have a blessed day!
Starr
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Welcome To Saturation Saturday
The Dictionary says that saturate means, "to soak thoroughly, of the greatest intensity, to steep, to drench".
My favorite part of the definition says, "to cause to unite with the greatest possible amount of another substance."
Interestingly enough, in Physics saturated means "Charged to the fullest extent of it's capacity."
I love that, don't you? For that reason, I have decided to put Saturdays aside as a day to saturate myself and my bloggy friends in God's Word. No other substance can adequately "charge us to the fullest extent of our capacity".
Though I will use many parts of scripture on Saturation Saturdays, I will focus mainly in the Psalms.
The past two weeks, my trust in God has wavered. I have questioned Him many times.
I cannot fathom why on earth He would allow a precious and perfect newborn baby girl to spend the first few weeks of her life without her loving mother.
I cannot begin to understand why He would filter through His hands an illness that would keep an ecstaticly happy first-time father from enjoying the experience with the mother of his baby daughter.
I can't imagine why a perfectly healthy woman would go to a hospital to give birth and face the beginning of the fight for her life the very next morning.
I do know this. God is in control. He did not cause this to happen. He sees the big picture. He has a plan.
His plan for us during trying times like these is to pray and trust in His promises; To praise Him for His loving-kindness.
Maybe you are facing some difficulties in your life right now. Maybe things are not as you would prefer them to be and your trust is wavering like mine. Maybe you are just wondering "Why". Let's jump into the pool of God's Word together and unite ourselves with Him completely. Let's steep in His promises. Let's drench ourselves with His peace and healing.
I will begin with Psalm 41 from the Amplified Bible and add a few drops from other Psalms for us to soak in.
Dear Father,
Your word tells us that blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is he who considers the weak and the poor; the Lord will deliver him in the time of evil and trouble (v1). You promise You will protect us and keep us alive; that we shall be called blessed in the land (v 2). You promise to sustain, refresh, and strengthen us on our bed of languishing; that on our bed You [O Lord] will turn, change, and transform in our illness (v 3).
God, You are our Refuge and Strength (mighty and impenetrable to temptation), a very present and well-proved help in trouble (Psalm 46 v 1). Therefore, I will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains be shaken into the midst of the seas, Though it's waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at it's swelling and tumult, SELAH (Pause and calmly think of that!) (Psalm 46 v 3).
There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God (Psalm 46 v4). God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her (Psalm 46 v 5). You will make us glad again!! You will bring us out of these times of turmoil. We will see Your mighty hand at work!
We will call on You in our day of trouble and You will deliver us, and we shall honor and glorify You!! (Psalm 50 v 15). The world will have no choice but to see Your power working in our troublesome situation! You will conquer and restore!
We will rejoice in You, O Lord! We will give You thanks in the great assembly; we will praise You among the mighty throng! (Psalm 35 v 18).
Your hand is at work for us behind the scenes. You NEVER leave us alone or forsaken. You are holding us in the palm of Your mighty right hand and we can feel assured in Your protection and divine wisdom.
Our inner selves wait [earnestly] for You Lord; You are our help and our Shield (Psalm 33 v 20).
For in You does our heart rejoice, because we have trusted (relied on and been confident) in Your holy name (Psalm 33 v 21). Let Your mercy and loving-kindness, O Lord, be upon us, in proportion to our waiting and hoping for You (Psalm 33 v 22). May our trust in You never waver. May we stand strong on Your Word.
We Praise You as we claim all these promises from Your Word in Jesus' name. Amen (So Be It!)
Do you feel a little stronger now? Are you charged up? I certainly am!
Have a wonderful Saturday in the Lord!
Love and Blessings,
Starr
My favorite part of the definition says, "to cause to unite with the greatest possible amount of another substance."
Interestingly enough, in Physics saturated means "Charged to the fullest extent of it's capacity."
I love that, don't you? For that reason, I have decided to put Saturdays aside as a day to saturate myself and my bloggy friends in God's Word. No other substance can adequately "charge us to the fullest extent of our capacity".
Though I will use many parts of scripture on Saturation Saturdays, I will focus mainly in the Psalms.
The past two weeks, my trust in God has wavered. I have questioned Him many times.
I cannot fathom why on earth He would allow a precious and perfect newborn baby girl to spend the first few weeks of her life without her loving mother.
I cannot begin to understand why He would filter through His hands an illness that would keep an ecstaticly happy first-time father from enjoying the experience with the mother of his baby daughter.
I can't imagine why a perfectly healthy woman would go to a hospital to give birth and face the beginning of the fight for her life the very next morning.
I do know this. God is in control. He did not cause this to happen. He sees the big picture. He has a plan.
His plan for us during trying times like these is to pray and trust in His promises; To praise Him for His loving-kindness.
Maybe you are facing some difficulties in your life right now. Maybe things are not as you would prefer them to be and your trust is wavering like mine. Maybe you are just wondering "Why". Let's jump into the pool of God's Word together and unite ourselves with Him completely. Let's steep in His promises. Let's drench ourselves with His peace and healing.
I will begin with Psalm 41 from the Amplified Bible and add a few drops from other Psalms for us to soak in.
Dear Father,
Your word tells us that blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is he who considers the weak and the poor; the Lord will deliver him in the time of evil and trouble (v1). You promise You will protect us and keep us alive; that we shall be called blessed in the land (v 2). You promise to sustain, refresh, and strengthen us on our bed of languishing; that on our bed You [O Lord] will turn, change, and transform in our illness (v 3).
God, You are our Refuge and Strength (mighty and impenetrable to temptation), a very present and well-proved help in trouble (Psalm 46 v 1). Therefore, I will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains be shaken into the midst of the seas, Though it's waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at it's swelling and tumult, SELAH (Pause and calmly think of that!) (Psalm 46 v 3).
There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God (Psalm 46 v4). God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her (Psalm 46 v 5). You will make us glad again!! You will bring us out of these times of turmoil. We will see Your mighty hand at work!
We will call on You in our day of trouble and You will deliver us, and we shall honor and glorify You!! (Psalm 50 v 15). The world will have no choice but to see Your power working in our troublesome situation! You will conquer and restore!
We will rejoice in You, O Lord! We will give You thanks in the great assembly; we will praise You among the mighty throng! (Psalm 35 v 18).
Your hand is at work for us behind the scenes. You NEVER leave us alone or forsaken. You are holding us in the palm of Your mighty right hand and we can feel assured in Your protection and divine wisdom.
Our inner selves wait [earnestly] for You Lord; You are our help and our Shield (Psalm 33 v 20).
For in You does our heart rejoice, because we have trusted (relied on and been confident) in Your holy name (Psalm 33 v 21). Let Your mercy and loving-kindness, O Lord, be upon us, in proportion to our waiting and hoping for You (Psalm 33 v 22). May our trust in You never waver. May we stand strong on Your Word.
We Praise You as we claim all these promises from Your Word in Jesus' name. Amen (So Be It!)
Do you feel a little stronger now? Are you charged up? I certainly am!
Have a wonderful Saturday in the Lord!
Love and Blessings,
Starr
Friday, July 25, 2008
The Image Of The Father
Six year-old Austin wants so much to be like his dad. Everything my husband does, Austin wants to do, too.
My husband is an avid bike rider and you cannot imagine how excited Austin was this morning when he discovered a bike shirt in his drawer! The screams could be heard throughout the entire house.
You see, yesterday my sister brought over some clothes my nephew has outgrown and I had placed them all in Austin's drawers without him even noticing it. I never realized those shirts would have such an effect on my little guy.
"MOM!!! Can I go ride my bike right now!!??", he yelled from his room as he excitedly dressed himself in the bike clothes.
Next thing I knew, he was standing at my bedroom door all dressed and exclaiming, "Look Mom!! I look just like dad does!!"
"Of course you can go ride." How could I say no to that little face.
He wouldn't set foot out the door, though before calling his dad at work to tell him all about how his new bike clothes matched his bike and how he was just like dad. Then, he took off like a professional. How adorable he was as he rode away!
My husband is an avid bike rider and you cannot imagine how excited Austin was this morning when he discovered a bike shirt in his drawer! The screams could be heard throughout the entire house.
You see, yesterday my sister brought over some clothes my nephew has outgrown and I had placed them all in Austin's drawers without him even noticing it. I never realized those shirts would have such an effect on my little guy.
"MOM!!! Can I go ride my bike right now!!??", he yelled from his room as he excitedly dressed himself in the bike clothes.
Next thing I knew, he was standing at my bedroom door all dressed and exclaiming, "Look Mom!! I look just like dad does!!"
"Of course you can go ride." How could I say no to that little face.
He wouldn't set foot out the door, though before calling his dad at work to tell him all about how his new bike clothes matched his bike and how he was just like dad. Then, he took off like a professional. How adorable he was as he rode away!
The other day, my husband was working on his car, so Austin went and grabbed his toolbox. Next thing I knew, he was under the car "working" hard. What a cute little mechanic he made!
My husband is also a guitarist and Praise and Worship Leader. Here is a photo of my oldest son, Chase.
Do you see a pattern here? I certainly do! My husband has an important task set before him if he is to influence our children for God. I think he does a tremendously good job at it. Just look at the evidence!
Parenting is a large calling on one's life. It is a big role to fill. To our children, we are heroes. Little do they know, they are our heroes! Someday when they become parents themselves, they will know firsthand just how much they influenced us.
I found this poem by Lee Fisher. It says it all. My husband keeps on his dresser.
A Little Fellow Follows Me
A Careful man I want to be, A little fellow follows me;
I do not dare to go astray, For fear he'll go the self-same way.
I cannot once escape his eyes, What'er he sees me do, he tries;
Like me he says he's going to be, The little chap who follows me.
He thinks that I am good and fine, Believes in every work of mine;
The base in me he must not see, The little chap who follows me.
I must remember as I go, Through summer's sun and winter's snow;
I'm building for the years to be that little chap who follows me.
(Lee Fisher)
May we strive to be the kind of people our children believe we are.
1 John 3:2- "Beloved, we are [even here and] now God's children; it is not yet disclosed (made clear) what we shall be [hereafter], but we know that when He comes and is manifested, we shall [as God's children] resemble and be like Him, for we shall see Him just as He [really] is. (AMP)
May we strive to be like our Father, our Creator.
Colossians 3:10- "....renewed and remolded into [fuller and more perfect knowledge upon] knowledge after the image (the likeness) of Him Who created it. (AMP)
Have you influenced your child today in a positive manner? Tell me your stories of how your little ones follow in your footsteps. Can't wait to hear from you all!
Love and Blessings,
Starr
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