The countdown has begun. Our daughter, Riley, has ten more days of high school before graduation. Exciting days. Bittersweet days. She pulled together some photos to include on her senior collage, and a flood of memories hit me. Adorable baby pictures, mixed in with those capturing her bubbly toddler personality. Pictures conveying the slightly awkward 'tween' stage that included braces, and pictures that assured us that those braces were very worthwhile. Beautiful memories.
What a privilege my husband, Steve, and I have been given by God - that of parenthood. A privilege and a big responsibility! As flawed humans, trying to raise a daughter in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is challenging, to say the least. Thankfully, we aren't left on our own. When God calls us to a specific task, He also equips us. As Moses questioned God's decision to send him to Egypt to free His people, God reminded Moses of this truth, "Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say" (Exodus 4:12; KJV). God's wisdom and strength are ours for the asking. He promises us, " Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you" (Matthew 7:7).
As the years have sped by, and she's moved toward independence, we've had to realize that Riley isn't really ours. She was fearfully and wonderfully made by our Heavenly Father to bring Him honor and glory. We are entrusted with her, but in reality, she belongs to Him, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10). He has a plan and purpose for her life. How exciting to know that she's in the best hands possible - those of the Master!
Our prayer for Riley can be summed up in the words Moses penned for the children of Israel, "love the Lord your God,...walk in all his ways, and...cleave unto him" (Deuteronomy 11:22). Love Him, obey Him and cling to Him. When God's word is alive and active in the life of a surrendered believer, there's no limit to what God can do! Can you see the potential? We're looking forward to all God has in store for you, Riley! Strive to reach your full potential for Him! Mom and Dad love you!
What has God called you to do? How has He equipped you? Are you ready to reach your full potential? Let me hear from you!
