Yes, it is true, my sons are ages 12 and 14. And no, they are not married. But someday they will be. It might even be to your daughter, so you may want to keep reading.
My children will tell you that I have a singular focus on the development and encouragement of the calling of girls and women. “What is wrong with boys?” they ask. “Nothing.” I say. Boy, are incredible. I am blessed to be the mom of two AMAZING young men. I count it an honor and I thank God every morning and every night for the precious gift of parenting boys.
But I passionate about the lives of girls and the women. Women that my son’s will eventually call their wives. This is how God designed me.
So girls, this blog is for you on this Valentine’s Day!
First, I want you to know that I believe in you. Did you know that God has called you? That He knew you and chose before the foundation of the world and He designed you for something incredible (Ephesians 1:4)! You were created with talents and gifts and strengths that are unique only to you. You have a calling that is to be shared with the world. A life to be embraced, cherished, loved and shared with others!
That fire that burns inside you, that dream you have, the story you are dying to share…those are all a reality waiting to be realized!
But how can my dreams become a reality, you ask?
Here are three things your future mother-in-law knows about your future success:
1. Education. Knowledge is power. Become a life-long learner. It will change how you think and feel about yourself and others. Self-awareness is the key to a life of transformation. You will never have all the answers so keep asking questions and learning about God, yourself and others.
Something you need to know: Education alone will not lead you to your dream, there is something more.
2. Relationships with others. God created you for relationship. Love deeply. There is nothing gained by holding back. Relationships are where we grow, we learn, and we are held accountable. But even more profound than those gifts, relationships will teach you the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) – how to be patient, kind, have self-control…And if you are willing, relationships will also teach you how accept others differences and to forgive. Relationships are the vehicle to your dreams. Without advocates, mentors, and coaches you cannot achieve what God has planned for you.
My darling and beautiful daughter-in-law, relationships alone will not lead you to your dream, there is one more thing you need to know.
3. Self-Identity in Christ. This is the most important gift I can offer you. Without it, your heart will never feel complete. The gift that you would have a far-reaching and whole understanding of you who are in Christ. An understanding that when you surrender your life to Jesus, He empowers you to do everything you are called to do regardless of obstacles and what you think you lack. The world tells you a different story every time you turn on the T.V. or open a magazine but God’s word is true, it cannot be denied by one look at you that proves you were created in the image of God. You are magnetic and beautiful, made perfect through your relationship with Christ. There is nothing missing. You are celebrated by a heavenly host of angels and cheered on to great things ahead!
Truly, dear future daughter-in-law, it is when you see yourself through His eyes and not the world’s that you will live out the dreams and calling that God has placed in your heart.
I will be here praying for you and cheering you on every step of the way!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
What do you think?