I did something this morning that I actively try to avoid. I allowed my mind to stir in fear of the future. As a creative thinker, my brain is a breeding ground for all things exaggerated - good and bad (shout out to all my drama mammas). To counteract the bad, I must continually pursue the Word. But today the noise was louder than normal. My fear was seeded in the future of my children. I worried about the coming years when they would begin making their own decisions: choosing friends, schools, relationships, spouses, careers. We’ve all heard the Pastor Kid horror stories. But my fear was less about losing control and more about the “what if’s”. What if they have crappy friends? What if they marry someone who doesn’t love God and is a complete idiot? What if we shielded them too much or didn’t protect them enough?What if… What if… What if…
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I stood in the bathroom crying over things that I have actively prayed against, things I fully believe will never happen. I knew in that moment I was headed down a rabbit hole that I DID NOT want to travel. NOTHING productive comes from fear and worry. I quickly cried out “JESUS” as I attempted to catch my breath. Immediately He settled this in my heart…“The same promises I offer you, I will also give to your children.”
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I knew exactly what He meant. “Never once did I promise you 'no trouble'… I don’t promise that for your children either. I never said there wouldn’t be hard decisions and life changing moments. Never once did I say there wouldn’t be tears and struggles… But what I do promise is this.. I will fight for you!! And I will fight for your children, too. I will never stop pursuing you… And I am already pursuing them. I promise you that waters WILL rise but you will not be overtaken because I am with you. I promise forgiveness and grace EVERY TIME you fail me. And you know what… I promise every single one of those things to Gracyn and Landrum, too! “I’m the God of Abraham and Issac, of Jeff and Brittney, and of Gracyn and Landrum. I’m the same yesterday, today and forever. The Bible isn’t reserved for those 18 and over. It’s just as real for your family as it is for you.
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“You and I have come too far to spend our precious time together in fear. Know that I work all things together for your good. Every misstep your children take, I will use to draw them closer to me, as well as you. I have given you all the tools necessary to access the very throne of God. That is where you will find victory for your children. On your knees is where this battle is won.”
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Prayer: Thank you God for your promises, even the difficult ones. Your grace and mercy have carried me far beyond what I ever imagined. Thank you for trusting me with a family, even when I don’t feel qualified. Thank you for being consistent and unchanging. Bless our littles just as you have blessed us. And more. Help me stay focused on the ultimate goal of an intimate relationship with you. God, how deeply I love you. Amen
