Facing The Truth

Dear God,

Sometimes Your Spirit speaks to me in a still, small voice.  And when I am busy yelling, or finishing a project, fixing and tidying things at home, I don't hear You.  But of course, only when I slow down and listen do I hear You, in that clear, soothing voice.

When I talk to the kids, whether for a family meeting, or even just while having supper, we can all be together, learn to have a time of short prayer, quietness and stillness, and listen for You to speak within us all...  And as we gather together, please do speak to us, Father.  Show us the truths we need to know.  Help us to trust You for the truths that are about to come.

Your guidance and help is trustworthy. You are our family's Good Shepherd, for You lead us to places of rest, and peace, when we need them.  My kids, Dh, and I need that kind of rest.  And we thank You for Your leading.

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes,

he will guide you into all the truth.

He will not speak on his own;

he will speak only what he hears,

and he will tell you what is yet to come.

John 16:13

Sometimes The Truth Hurts

Dear God,

Sometimes the truth hurts big time...  I know Your Word is always honest and will point out the shortcomings in my life.  It will tell me when the temperamental side of me is out of line, or when my priorities are going left.  It will show me when I have treated of dealt with my kids in an ungodly way...  or it will let me face the question, "What Would Jesus Do?"

I am in no way different from the rest of other people.  I don't like to be confronted with what I am doing wrong, but I know for a fact, that through Your Word, You point these things out to me, for my own good.  Just like my earthly parents, You want me to do better, so You let me know when I am wrong.  That way, I can always come to You to be cleansed, and be given an opportunity to set things right.  Thank You, Lord, for the truth in Your Word, even though at times, the truth hurts.

For the word of God is alive and active.

Sharper than any double-edged sword,

it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit,

joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts

and attitudes of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12

Your Divine Power

Dear God,

Sometimes I see my kids wanting to do or deciding things on their own even if my motherly instincts and wisdom says they still need me there. I am like that at times, and often, I see myself being like them -- just wanting to do things on my own, without Your help.  I tend to forget that all things come from You, and not from my own efforts.  Even my very strength comes from You alone.

I need to be guided by Your Word and grow in knowledge of You to achieve godliness in character.  That is my share; my part.  And then by doing so, I can also help my kids understand how to live godly, obedient lives.  You have given us the things we need for life and godliness, for You alone, are the Great Provider.

I am called not just to become a Mom, but also to live a godly life with it --- not by my being childish, but by Your grace and virtue.  Thank You for that kind of provision.

 

His divine power has given us everything we need

for a godly life through our knowledge of him

who called us by his own glory and goodness.

2 Peter 1:3

 

Loving My Kids

Dear God,

As I type this in the corner where I sit, I notice my growing kids while they quietly do their own things with their own "big kid toys".  My heart sings praises for the love I feel for each of them.  I want to go to them, give them random hugs and kisses, and just simply draw them close to me.

Both are growing up fast, at breakneck speed, and I cherish every waking moment with them.  I love them so dearly, and nowadays, catching them for a hug is quite difficult.  Being gentle with them in word and deed is also easier said than done.

Lord, You have given me my two kids to cherish, and love, and that includes being gentle with them, especially that both are growing to be adolescents. I treasure both so much, so please help me impart Your gentleness to them.  Help me to draw them close when needed, and help me become involved in their activities.  Mold me into the Mom they both need.  Thank You, Father.

  Instead, we were like young children among you.

Just as a nursing mother cares for her children,

1 Thessalonians 2:7

It Is In Giving

Dear God,

You have made it clear in my quiet time today, that giving is a command, and not an option. And You have  also shown what the results of obeying this command brings...  I have many opportunities to give, even in my own little way.  One, I know that  should tithe to the church.  And that I can give more than that...  You speak through Your Word, to my heart, to my mind, and provide our finances for all this.

And I can give more than just money...  I can also find ways on how to serve in church, in ministries, or spend beautiful time with the growing kids.  You told me to give, and that if I do, it shall also be given to me.  You don't simply say what it is, but Your generosity is unmatched and Your tremendous blessings are always great.  Thank you, Lord!

Give, and it will be given to you.

A good measure, pressed down,

shaken together and running over,

 will be poured into your lap.

For with the measure you use,

it will be measured to you.

Luke 6:38

Your Promises

Dear God,

One of the kids sort of didn't tell me the truth today. Oh my, imagine the heartache I felt...  I have tried my best to raise my kids to always tell us the truth, even when the truth isn't pretty to hear.  At times, I am also tempted to lie, but try my best not to...  Of course, I have to be a fitting example to them -- but sometimes, human nature prevails, most especially in the workplace, and the influence the world around me surfaces.

We all know You are not like that, Lord.  You alone are the truth.  You will never ever lie.  Your example of being trustworthy is the one I need to exemplify to the kids.  Their very lives as they grow up will be made full by trusting Your Word in all things.

Please take away my anger and disappointment...  Bless me with Your wisdom and understanding, and speak to me, Father.  I will listen with my heart and be fulfilled.

God is not human, that he should lie,
    not a human being, that he should change his mind.
Does he speak and then not act?
    Does he promise and not fulfill?

Numbers 23:19

Letting Go Of Grudges

Dear God,

By now, I believe I have discovered how ugly it is to harbor a grudge. It seems, that if I don't deal immediately with something that makes me angry, I begin to make the situation a lot worse than it already is.

Sometimes, when everything has gone in the opposite direction of whatever I have planned, I begin to have "pity moments" for myself. I look at everything my DS, DD, DH, and anyone else have done wrong and magnify it in an attempt to blame someone other than myself and to justify my bad attitude.

But You have told me that I should overlook the faults of others and that I should set aside my anger. Please help me do things Your way, Lord. I desperately need Your help in this...

A person’s wisdom yields patience;
it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.
Proverbs 19:11

Being Blessed Abundantly

Dear God,

Perhaps some people might just think that my quiet time reading for the day is not true. But I know oherwise. You, who are the truth, would never ever say something false in Your Word.

There are times when DS and DD want more of certain things than they could possibly need... I long for many material things... However, when we are all truly focused on You, the desire for wordly, material things we all want to have disappear. And then Your desires for us become our desires.

When I see my DS or DD share with others, like lending out a hand to those in need, or bowing their heads to pray, I know they are learning to honor You by doing Your will. They are also watching me as I do these things. Lord, please guide me to always point them to the right and perfect example that Jesus set for all of us.

Fear the LORD,
you his holy people,
for those who fear him lack nothing.
Psalm 34:9

Having Great Faith

Dear God,

I wish I could say that I have great faith – but really, I often fall short. The mother described in my quiet time verse for today had enough faith to realize that it would take just a small amount of Your power to heal her demon-possessed daughter.

I'm afraid that too many times my faith is so shallow that I believe what I need done is going to require an enormous amount of power. I may even convince myself that my need is not important enough to bother You with. In doing so, I miss receiving and seeing Your blessings. I know You promised in Matthew 17:20 that if I would have faith the size of a mustard seed, I would be able to move a mountain with just a word. That's the kind of faith I want in my daily life. Please help me grow that kind of faith in me.

Then Jesus said to her,
“Woman, you have great faith!
Your request is granted.”
And her daughter was healed at that moment.
Matthew 15:28

Let My Children See You In Me

Dear God,

You are the best example of what a loving parent should be. I know I am called to be Christ-like in all I do, and that includes my parenting style. Lord, please give me the strength and the wisdom to be the godly example that my DS and DD need to see, especially at home. I know that the life I live has a big influence on their attitudes that are developing concerning You.

Lord, I want to be instrumental in helping my two kids establish a close, direct walk with You. I clearly realize that in order for this to happen, I must be like You in every way. Please help me daily to renew my commitment to follow in Your steps. Thank You for being the example I need.

To this you were called,
because Christ suffered for you,
leaving you an example,
that you should follow in his steps.
1 Peter 2:21

Growing As An Encourager

Dear God,

Whether I like it or not, I am an example to my DS and DD. But how many times have I failed to do what my quiet time verse for today commands? You know that I am not always patient, Lord... I don't take time to comfort or support those who need it most, and everytime, my kids are watching.

But every moment of my waking life, I want to improve. I want to tell my kids about the need to be there for others, to encourage in whatever way is needed. Your Word says I have to do this by example.

The little ways do count, Father. Please help me teach my DS and DD that to grow as encouragers, they can start with small things as they comfort others and build from there.

And we urge you, brothers and sisters,
warn those who are idle and disruptive,
encourage the disheartened, help the weak,
be patient with everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:14

The Fruit Of Righteousness

Dear God,

I cannot thank You enough for the promises and truths found in Your Word. I would not have believed it possible for myself to have such a change of heart. The day before yesterday was an ugly day for me at work. I was simply diappointed, devastated, angry at the whole world; even my DS and DD wouldn't want to stay close to me at home... But today, I am the sweetest, most loving parent any child would want.

I know that once again the sinful nature will rear its ugly head. My beautiful self will become tainted. I will be harsh, and affect other family members negatively again. I also know that my relationship with my kids will not be good when that happens. It will not be a joyful ride at home. It will hurt; however, Your promise will hold true once more. Thank You that Your Word is right every time, Lord. Each time life tests my boundaries, I can throw up the fence that You provide.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time,
but painful. Later on, however,
it produces a harvest of righteousness
and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Hebrews 12:11

Help Me See Them With Your Eyes

Dear God,

I did it again... Somehow, some people in the workplace said something to hurt my feelings. I acted polite, but then my hurt and anger boiled over. I can still see the wide-eyes of my DS and DD as they listened to my unkind words. How could I have actually "listed" down my gripes in front of them? Really now, I realize, I should have just spoken to You in private, Father...

Give me the wisdom to talk to my family about what I said. Perhaps that co-worker wasn't feeling well...? Maybe I misunderstood the intended meaning...? After all, how many times have I also allowed something to slip off my tongue without thinking...?

Lord, I want to be able to show my DS and DD the value of self-control and forgiveness. Please help me to see other people the way You see them.

Blessed are those you choose
and bring near to live in your courts!
We are filled with the good things of your house,
of your holy temple.
Psalm 65:4

Your Unfailing Love

Dear God,

Thank You for being so ever faithful. Thank You that each day Your love for me is always just the right amount to get me through the day. Some mornings I don't even want to open my eyes; I close them tight, hoping to squeeze out the fact that there is an undending number of tasks that await me.

I don't want to face the inevitable DS and DD fights that are just around the corner. For that matter, I don't want to think of the ordeal of trying to come up with a meal that both of them will actually eat.

When I face it from my perspective, I am overwhelmed, but when I remember that You are offering me Your compassion, I am renewed. I rejoice in Your faithfulness, Lord.

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

Wisdom From You

Dear God,

My DS and DD are not rich or wealthy. At least not by the world's standards... It's also not too likely that they ever will be as long as they're relying on us, their parents, for their income. I would not say that they are poor either, but, of course, these are not the things that should matter in this world... Listening to us and paying attention to wise counsel will definitely make both of them far better people than either wealth or poverty.

Lord, please give me the wisdom I need to properly advise my DS and DD. Please help me also teach and instill in their hearts and mind to always seek guidance from Your Word and in accordance with the Holy Spirit. DH and I may not be able to offer earthly riches, but we can always teach them Your truths, and that is what really counts. As our kids grow, Father, help them use wisdom from You.

Better a poor but wise youth
than an old but foolish king
who no longer knows how to heed a warning.
Ecclesiastes 4:13

Help Me Control My Anger

Dear God,

I know that in all my numerous foolishness and meaness, I have caused You so many reasons to be angry at me. But You very well know how to handle anger , and of course, too many times always, I don't... If my DS or DD disobeys, or if DH does something that annoys me, I have a difficult time controlling my temper. And too often always, I harbor a deep, wounding anger throughout the day. Believe me God, all I want and pray for, is for us to go to bed so we can start a-fresh the next day...

But Lord, instead of waiting for another day, I know that You want me to start fresh today -- even before the sun sets in the horizon... In Your infinite wisdom, You know that it will help my whole family if that happens. Please help me keep that in my mind and heart. Please lend me a hand so that I can handle anger the way You do. Help me not to lose my temper with my DS, DD, or DH, and please give me the grace to forgive today... Amen.

"In your anger do not sin”:
Do not let the sun go down
while you are still angry...
Ephesians 4:26

Casting Everything To You

Dear God,

If I completely trust You for my eternal and spiritual salvation, why don't I trust You for my daily needs? If I were totally honest, I would say that I defnitely know that I can do nothing about my salvation other than accept You as my personal Lord and Savior. But -- when it comes to my everyday, daily concerns, I often feel that there is something I can and should be doing...

A large part of it has something to do with my DS and DD. I feel that if I don't worry about them, and do something about it, they won't turn out right. I also know that in reality, my job is to pray everyday for them and bring them up according to Your Word. Then I must totally surrender them to You and trust You to do the work in their young lives.

Lord, please instill in me the peace and stillness that comes from casting all my cares on You.

Cast all your anxiety on him
because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7

Wisdom From Your Word

Dear God,

As much as I need Your wisdom in the many, everyday decisions I make (and face) concerning my family, I need it even more so for spiritual matters. Although I have been a Christian for many years, I still have many questions and also much to learn. As I read and study and hear about Your Word, still I need to receive a clear understanding of what You are saying to me through it.

Lord, I want the wisdom and the ability to discern and apply Your Word in my life, and I want to use it to teach my DS and DD. I know that it is Your will for me to understand Your Word, and I also know that You have given me the Holy Spirit to guide me. I pray hard that I will be able to take advantage of this great blessing to bless others around me.

For this reason,
since the day we heard about you,
we have not stopped praying for you.
We continually ask God
to fill you with the knowledge of his will
through all the wisdom and understanding
that the Spirit gives...
Colossians 1:9

Thanks To You

Dear God,

The language I speak is not enough to tell You what I want to say fully. I cannot begin to find the exact words to thank You for the many successes I have and received in my life. You are truly awesome, Lord.

The victory this devotional verse tells me this evening is so amazing. I even pointed this out to my DS and DD -- that we don't have to rely on our own abilities or the abilities of others -- we only have to wait on You, Lord. You are truly the mighty One -- the only One who helps us triumph over the whole world.

There is totally no condemnation for us when we believe in You. The covering of the blood of Jesus helps us to prevail over anything, and we never have to fear anymore. Thank You for giving us this victory, Lord.

But thanks be to God!
He gives us the victory
through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57

Bound By Your Love

Dear God,

Please comfort my heart and give me complete understanding and assurance... In this spiritual family where we belong with Christ, I should feel that I am rich in love and compassion. Instead, some of the people are critical, cold, and self-serving... That hurts, Lord.

To be honest, You have seen me in my ugliest moments -- or when I myself am critical and outright bad. During these times I am reminded afterwards that it is my pride that more oftenly causes me to become critical of others. These people are my spiritual family, God. By finding fault in them I am setting a poor example of how to belong.

Real love is kind, not prideful or self-serving. God please fill me with compassion for my fellow Christians so that I may be a godly example of love and understanding -- especially to my DS and DD. There is nothing more that I want, than to emulate your Son, Jesus.

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart
and united in love,
so that they may have the full riches
of complete understanding,
in order that they may know the mystery of God,
namely, Christ...
Colossians 2:2

Your Everlasting Strength

Dear God,

Just how long is everlasting...? A million years...? A billion years...? A mega gazillion...? I cannot fully comprehend that length of time. And I know that my time is measured in hours, days, years, and sometimes even in minutes. Truly, the thought of "everlasting" is so vast, I cannot understand it. Explaining eternity to my DS and DD is almost impossible as I myself, could not totally grasp it.

But I can trust in You, Father, because Your strength never ever fails. It is here for all eternity. You do not weaken like I do. You are omnipotent...

The heroes that the world admire today have weaknesses. But not You, Lord. You are perfect. Your strength is everlasting. I want my DS and DD to trust You as their only hero -- their only all-wise, all-powerful, all-sufficient, mighty protector -- the One they can trust in forever and ever. I praise You, my God.

Trust in the LORD forever,
for the LORD,
the LORD himself,
is the Rock eternal.
Isaiah 26:4

Thank You Father

Dear God,

Thank You for cleansing me of my evil ways and allowing me to come out of the darkness of sin and into the light of Your salvation. If I had nothing else for which to be thankful, that would be enough. I am so blessed to be one of Your children. Thank You, Father, that many of my friends and some of my family members have found this new life in You.

I am grateful that I have the opportunity to teach my DS and DD the truths found in Your Word. I am trusting that You will open their spiritual understanding. I am looking forward to the day they will truly understand what it is to accept You as their personal Lord and Savior, and be "partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light." From that day forward I will have something else for which to thank You.

...and giving joyful thanks to the Father,
who has qualified you to share in the inheritance
of his holy people in the kingdom of light.
Colossians 1:12

Bearing The Burden

Dear God,

When you were in the garden, You prayed to have the cup of suffering taken from You. You understood sorrow, temptation, and all that we suffer here on Earth. Yet You also said in Lke 22:42, "Not my will but thine be done.""

A mother's burden can truly be heavy too, Jesus. There are days when I don't know how much longer I can go on. I try to hide this from my DS and DD, of course... So they won't get hurt too, but sometimes I just can't. The choices they sometimes make in their own lives may depend on the way I handle trials too.

Your Word says that You will provide a way of escape. You help us carry our burdens. There are others who have carried the same weight before me, and I know I must be strong. I want to lean on You, Father. Then I can also teach my DS and DD the joy of being able to trust in You completely.

No temptation has overtaken you
except what is common to mankind.
And God is faithful;
he will not let you be tempted
beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted,
he will also provide a way out
so that you can endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

Instruction From Dad And Mom

Dear God,

When my DS or DD don't listen to me, I get so angry. I know I should be firmer with them and make them mind me, not ignore me, most especially at home. But sometimes, perhaps out of pure exhaustion from work, or maybe because I am sometimes too tired to get mad, my desire to discipline them melt away.

But what am I teaching them by doing this, I often reflect....? That's the problem. By allowing such leniency, I am giving them the idea that they don't have to abide by the rules. When they are grown, -- which time brings on very fast, -- they might believe that You don't require them to follow Your absolutes.

Lord, please give me the wisdom and strength in my instruction to my DS and DD. Please help me to be firm and consistent when I need to be, yet tender and giving as Your teaching allows. Guide me in how to show love for You and Your laws as well... Amen.

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
Proverbs 1:8

Being Blessed During Persecution

Dear God,

I don't exactly know how I can do this... How can I be blessed when, for example, people are upset with me, or dislike me because I believe in You? At times I also keep thinking of the way this is affecting my DS and DD. Because I want them to see me --- their Mother -- as a godly woman, but if they begin to doubt, then what...? Lord, please help my DS and DD to understand the need to suffer persecution at times, for Your sake...

When I put this into persepective, Lord, I know You suffered much more terrible persecution than I do sometimes. Although You were also tempted like us, You made the right choices. You didn't deserve what was done to You.

Please keep my faith, no matter what, Lord. When I am following You, I know I can be blessed, no matter what others say about me. Thank You, Jesus, for mapping the way for me and for my DS and DD...

Blessed are you when people insult you,
persecute you and falsely say
all kinds of evil against you
because of me.
Matthew 5:11