“For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
Psalm 103:11-12
(This photo was taken in October of 2014 at the Nakalele Blowhole on the island of Maui)
“But you, o Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
Psalm 86:15
(This photo was taken in September of 2014 in a neighborhood near Minneapolis, Minnesota)
“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
1 Corinthians 13:6-7
(This photo was taken in June of 2013 near Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
(This photo was taken in April of 2016 during sunrise on a lake in central Minnesota)
“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Psalm 19:14
(This photo was taken in August of 2016 at Arches National Park in Utah)
Children are a gift from God. They come in several different sizes and styles. They come from a genetic make-up, but that does not determine everything about their lives. Having been a child ourselves does not give us everything we need to become a dependable mother or father. We don’t have all the answers…our own experiences can help in many situations but not all the time. As I continue to strive to live a balanced, Christ centered life here are some of things I have learned that may be helpful to other parents or at least good reminders…
Actions are more important than words
Listen as much or more than you speak
Work less sometimes to be with them
Attention should be equally distributed to all
You can be a friend, a guide, a coach or a counselor at times
Show them God working in the world and in their lives
This is by no means an all-encompassing list, however, it does cover many years of their lives. You may have noticed the first letter of each statement when put together spell…ALWAYS.
ALWAYS pray for them
ALWAYS love them
ALWAYS forgive them
ALWAYS be there for them
ALWAYS trust in God for their well being
Lastly, be open to try new things and to have new experiences…often times that is the only way you both can see God.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
2 Corinthians 5:17
Peace to you and yours.
