When our children were really young, a mom of teens shared, “I pray almost every day for each of our children’s mate.”
Silently I thought, “Well, that’s a good prayer. But that’s a long ways down the road. I’ll add it later.”
My mind already overflowed with prayer needs for the current season.
Potty-training, sharing, sleep, wellness…
…Patience, guidance and getting everything done.
Because it wasn’t pressing, I wasn’t motivated.
Several years after Terrell and I were married, an older couple approached me at an event my husband and I were attending. After introducing themselves, one said, “We’re so glad to meet you. We prayed for years for you.” They attended my husband’s church when he was single.
No words. Strangers praying for me, a stranger. For my path and development over many years.
That day I jotted some prayers in my Quiet Time journal that I pray daily for each of our children and their mate. Here are a few: That they love Jesus most. That they love, honor and cherish each other. That they’re each other’s best friend.
To love Jesus most is a lifelong journey. Learning to love, honor and cherish another person is learned over the course of lots of relational experiences, the painful and pleasant. Understanding how to be a good friend takes time, which often includes trial.
Our son Ellison asked a beautiful young woman to marry him a few months ago. Her name is Carter. Our whole family is excited and thankful to God. They love Jesus most. They love, honor and cherish each other and they’re each other’s best friend.
What a privilege God gives us to stand in the gap praying for our children and for those they will love – for their protection and development. And for their continued growth throughout their lives.
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people…” (1 Timothy 2.1)
Loved reading this. How awesome that Ellison is engaged. Wow!! Tried to catch you at church on Sunday. Loved hearing Terrell’s sermon but so wanted to talk to you. Too many people trying to grab you and the grandchildren were running away from me:)
hugs and love
LikeLike
Joanne!
I’m sorry we didn’t get to connect, too. Coming from you (such a good teacher), thanks for the encouragement.
LikeLike
Love this…..we are all so thankful for you and your family and rejoice that Ellison has found God’s best for him in Carter! Am still praying for my 3 and your words have encouraged me in this! Love to you…..love to Terrell! Katie
LikeLike
Hi Katie,
THank you for your kind words. It’s great to hear from you! Hope you’re doing well.
You’re children are blessed to have such a praying momma 🙂
LikeLike
Congratulations Teresa! I am so happy for you and your family and the lucky young lady who will be your new daughter. As a mother of 3 boys, I have prayed throughout their life for Gods hand in the choosing of their mate and for their listening ability! Miss you.
LikeLike
Hi Tracy,
It’s so good to hear from you. How blessed those 3 young ladies will be to have you as their mother-in-law 🙂
Miss you, too.
LikeLike
Can’t wait to see all of yall! So excited to meet Carter! Love brad
LikeLike
You just made my day. Thank you for reading, Brad! We can’t wait to see you next month!! Love you!
LikeLike
Beautiful words to share and a beautiful couple. We are so excited for them.
I pray everyday for my boy’s and their future mates–Love you! Kara
LikeLike
Teresa,
So excited for Ellison and Carter. Thanks for sharing your heart and God’s heart in your writings.
Alison
LikeLike
Hi Alison,
What kind words, thank you. Seems like our kids were just playing in the neighborhood, doesn’t it. So good to hear from you!
LikeLike
Teresa, congratulations to Ellison and his beautiful fiancé !
As always, beautifully written thoughts and prayers!
LikeLike
Hi Meg!
Thank you. I’ll call soon!
Love you.
LikeLike
“To love Jesus most…” AMEN! What wonderful advice. Thanks, Teresa! All the best to your son and his soon-to-be bride 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you for reading this afternoon! That means so much. If you have the time, I did a 31 day focus called “Loving You MOST, Jesus.” Also, I read your “about” today. What a beautiful transition. I pray God’s blessings to you and your ministry.
LikeLike
Thank you so much for letting me know about the 31 day focus. I have the time…I’ll start today!
LikeLike