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 way 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 .. strength ..
Future spouses didn’t seem as pressing right now, so I wasn’t motivated.
A year later, an older couple approached me at an event that Terrell and I were attending. After introducing themselves, they shared that they’d known Terrell when he was single. “We’re so glad to meet you. We prayed for you for years .”
Strangers prayed for me, a stranger. They prayed for my path, my walk with God, my character development over many years. I was humbled, speechless, grateful.
That day I jotted new prayers in my journal 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.
Meanwhile, we pray.
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 are each other’s best friend.
What a privilege God gives us to stand in the gap and pray diligently for our children and for those they will love.
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people…” (1 Timothy 2.1)
Joanne Ellison says
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
Teresa says
Joanne!
I’m sorry we didn’t get to connect, too. Coming from you (such a good teacher), thanks for the encouragement.
Katie Miller Grant says
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
Teresa says
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 🙂
Tracy Olmstead says
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.
Teresa says
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.
Brad deBorde says
Can’t wait to see all of yall! So excited to meet Carter! Love brad
Teresa says
You just made my day. Thank you for reading, Brad! We can’t wait to see you next month!! Love you!
kara deBorde says
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
Alison Talley says
Teresa,
So excited for Ellison and Carter. Thanks for sharing your heart and God’s heart in your writings.
Alison
Teresa says
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!
Meg says
Teresa, congratulations to Ellison and his beautiful fiancé !
As always, beautifully written thoughts and prayers!
Teresa says
Hi Meg!
Thank you. I’ll call soon!
Love you.
EMRodriguez says
“To love Jesus most…” AMEN! What wonderful advice. Thanks, Teresa! All the best to your son and his soon-to-be bride 🙂
Teresa says
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.
EMRodriguez says
Thank you so much for letting me know about the 31 day focus. I have the time…I’ll start today!