Annoyances

A very unexpected and annoying thing happened this morning. Our phone number was spoofed and used to make robocalls all around the country. Many of those people called, tried to call us back. Since there is nothing the phone company can do, we decided to stop answering the calls. We created a new voice mail message:

"Some gooberhead decided to use our number to spoof and make robocalls. Our apologies if you were called by our number. Have a wonderful day!"

While the message is a little funny and sarcastic, I felt prompted to use a better choice of words. A few moments after praying about it, I knew there was a better choice of words...HIS. 

This is our new voicemail message:

"Our number was spoofed and used to make robocalls today. Our sincerest apologies; however, please know you are being prayed for, specifically, Ephesians 3:16-21. Have a wonderful day!"

And while it's still annoying to have the phone constantly ringing today, at least now it's a new reminder to pray. If you're reading this, I've prayed these verses over you, too. Let's all find a way to make the little annoyances of life less annoying by turning the focus onto Him. 

Make today for His Glory.

A Letter to my Son as He Graduates

Dear Son, 

You graduate next week. It's such an incredible milestone that is one of many you'll experience in your lifetime. Your Dad and I are so proud of all you've accomplished!

Son, it simply amazes me that we've reached this day in your life, as I could almost swear it was only yesterday we grew our family to four with the addition of you. Dad and I were absolutely thrilled to introduce you to your brother and the rest of our clan. As we experience this moment with you, we can scarcely believe the rapid pace that brought us here!

We've had such high expectations for you. You've risen and far exceeded all of them with great success. We love hearing about your goals and plans for your life; and even more so, we love watching you achieve them. Your passion for life and zest for adventure are some of your greatest assets. Hang on to those as you speed forward into your future. 

As you set new goals, you will find some will take more steps than others; and some will need you to stop and look before moving forward again. Each move will provide you with valuable lessons. Though you probably feel you already have life firmly figured out right now, I want to give you a few tips before you embark on your next journey. 

Go to class. Even though we know there will be days you'd rather be mountain biking & spending time outdoors, go to class. We've invested in you and your future. You're preparing for your future. Going to class will assure you are ready when your future becomes your present. 

Your Dad has worked hard to give you a stable home and encouraging environment. He is such a good example of what a Dad should be, and he's the only other person I know who loves you as much as I love you. Be sure to tell him, "I love you, Dad!" every once in awhile.

Our relationship is going to change. You're entering a new and exciting era of your life, even though you'll be living at home. As you learn to fly, I'll learn to let you go. Some days are going to be a challenge for both of us, as you spread your wings, and I adjust to your new come-and-go schedule. We'll probably make a few mistakes along the way. Just remember, I always have the best intentions. PS...my advice is pretty spot-on most of the time! :)

Continue to grow, stand firm in your faith, and read your Bible. Your great-Grandma told you Bible stands for 
Basic Information Before Leaving Earth. She was right. It is and will always be your Life-Line. As you leave a comfortable group of friends, who pretty much believe the same things you do, you are going to find those beliefs challenged. As you find your place in the world, remember who you are, and Whose you are. You are a child of the Most High God; a living, breathing miracle created in His image for His Glory. When life is going in a direction you didn't plan, cling to this.

When life seems hard, remember, you're not meant to go backwards. Put one foot in front of the other, and keep looking ahead. Life is a journey that only goes in a forward-moving direction. 

We are here when you need us. We want this next year to be the best ever for you. As you figure out what career you want and which path to take, we hope you remember you can discuss anything with us. Even though you'll be living at home, don't forget to hug your Momma's neck every once in a while!

Son, we cannot wait to see where God takes you on your journey! And no matter what...

We will always love you. 

1st Day of School

Last Day of School

Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children - Book Review

As my second child recently turned eighteen and my oldest is nearing twenty in another month, I've found my prayers changing for them. I also realize I'm more perplexed in what to, or even how, to best pray for them as they enter this new season of life. 

Thankfully, Jodie Berndt, has taken the time to write what I consider a field-guide to praying for my older children. While I've yet to experience all the situations outlined in each chapter, I'm glad to know I can simply flip the pages to one of the thoughtfully-arranged chapters, if we reach a common dilemma our adult children might face. I especially like each section begins with a bible verse to help remind me to return to scripture before praying.

I appreciated so many people contributed their not-so-perfect family stories for Mrs. Berndt to share. These are not meant to air their 'dirty laundry,' but to humbly show what God can do when we give our childrens' lives to him. Overall, this book is thoughtful, articulate, inspiring, but most of all practical. If you're at a loss for how to lift your adult child to Him, I recommend you grab a copy of "Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children."

Disclosure:  I was given the opportunity to review "Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children," receiving a copy from Handlebar Publishing. I have not been monetarily compensated, nor am I required to write a positive review. Views expressed are my own.