1Timothy 4:12

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."

September 2000
This post is a couple of weeks past due, in part due to our hectic schedule but mostly because of the denial on my part that my baby girl is actually a middle-schooler! She is growing up and while this should come as no big surprise, I must say that as my friend Tiffany mentioned in her post it always sounds so cliche.

*Time flies*

or

*Enjoy them while they are young, they grow up so quick*

These statements from those who have been there sound so far fetched when you are up to your eyeballs in diapers and nursing marathons! Still, it is truly only a season and not a very long one that we are privileged to impact these babes. We are obligated to instill in them the Godly desires and virtues that the Lord has given to us through his teachings through the word. I am sweatin' at the prospect of trying to hit the mark and questioning myself daily. Am I a living witness for my daughter? Is my marriage a Godly example, a biblical example; one that is a beautiful model for her to emulate? Are my friendships wholesome? Is there accountability in my conversations with them so that I am the perfect teacher for what holy friendships look like? Do I practice humility, gratitude, grace, forgiveness, self-sacrificial giving, (and on and on....) so that she then can have a reference when she is challenged in her school? Can the Lord use her in the mission field that is public school? I believe that He can and He does. While her light may not shine as brightly because it often stands alone, it is still light. Even though she is exposed to a culture that is not for Christ, she is still firm in her faith and is given such an awesome opportunity to testify. Difficult? Absolutely and nearly impossible, if not for God's grace and *His* possibilities.

My prayer for Hannah is this: "Lord, if it be your will, then please use this child and her love for you. As she is generous with her words of kindness, may they reflect your love and presence in her life. As she extends the invitation for the study of your word in our home, may it provide a place for boldness where she is otherwise timid. When confronted with worldly issues and situations that are so completely outside of your plan, may she be an example of a holy choice and one that totally gives glory to you because it is so different than the others. When she chooses an activity that is a challenge either physically or mentally, I pray she turns to you for the strength & discipline needed to finish the task. Through it all I pray that we are continually seeking your guidance and direction for this *Missionary Middle-Schooler* and we give you complete praise and honor for any great work that is accomplished."