Our goal is not to produce children who are simply an asset to society.
~~~
Instead, we aim to raise them to be vibrant messengers of the Living God,
tireless missionaries to the unsaved,
unmovable protectors of the Holy Scriptures,
staunch supporters of the Bride of Christ,
discerning prophets in the last days,
. . .
and who will be a relentless thorn in the devil’s side.
Every mother wants the best for her child. But what is best?
I could wish that my children would grow up to be recognized for their worldly achievement or that they would be famous and wildly popular among their peers. I could wish that they would be wealthy and able to live comfortably the rest of their lives or that they would never know illness or pain. I could wish that God would answer their every prayer with affirmation and that they would never have to know the pain of hearing “no”. I could wish that they would always have friends who encourage them and nobody who criticizes them.
But I do not wish these things upon my children. To do so would be to their ruin.
Instead, I wish that:
- You will always have a heart that clearly sees how sinful you are . . . and how merciful God is. A heart that is continually broken before a mighty God.
- God would provide just enough hardship to keep you constantly clinging to Him and His promises. God knows what “just enough” is for you. But whatever He takes you through, He will have a purpose.
- You would protect the borders of the church. Love the church, for Christ is coming back for her someday. Put on your armor, take up your sword, and don’t let the enemy breach the walls. It’s up to you, my children.
- You would have friends who have the courage to tell you when you’re wrong. And that you have the humility to hear them. Precious is the friend who will be the iron that sharpens iron.
- You would daily hear the cry of the damned souls. This should be your aim in life: to bring the Gospel to a world that is heading to hell.
- God would give you a discerning spirit against false teachers and their teachings that already are entering the church. And that He would provide an abundant measure of courage to face them.
- You would never be a lukewarm Christian. Never be ashamed to stand up for your beliefs, even if it means ridicule from your peers – friends and foes alike.
- You might find love, joy, and fulfillment in a marriage such as your father and I have. But if your marriage is a troubled one, I pray that you will be faithful anyway. Never break a vow – not to God, your spouse, your family, or your church.
- Ask God for a love of the Scriptures – and then make yourself a guardian to those holy words. Don’t wait for someone else to take up the fight. God needs you right now.
- You would do all you can to stop the devil in his tracks. Some might call you radical or even crazy, but remember whose side you’re on and that the last chapter of the book has already been written.
Last of all:
My wish for you, my children,
is that you will be found faithful when God calls your name.
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Twila Peachey Smucker says
I really really like this, Kendra. It got bookmarked to read aloud to the children tonight! You said it so well, what I feel in my heart too!
Kathy Sadlier says
This is so good Kendra and so what I want. God bless you as you keep leading and guiding your children. I am blessed to see parents whose desires are these and living them themselves – they are God’s desires.
Lisl Lattin says
This is lovely, Kendra! Well written.
Marilyn Schlabach says
Well stated, Kendra!! There is so much more I desire for my children than wealth N fame & since you have put on paper the desires of my heart for my children also do you mind if I copy this, Kendra?
Living in the Shoe says
Absolutely you can, Marilyn!
Kelley Brubaker Bowman says
Amen!