GRADUATES REJOICE AND SEEK HIS WAYS

This time of year in both May and June, depending on the part of the country you reside in, is when many high school and college graduates walk the aisle of a gymnasium, auditorium,  or arena somewhere to receive that long awaited diploma. A huge milestone in life has been reached for them as well as their parents. At the military academies the new officers throw their caps high in the air. Quite a celebration it truly is.

I thought what better time to write about plans for the future, wisdom, and running a race to win. A common Bible verse you often see around this time of year is Jeremiah 29:11 which says " I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future."

Also this is a excellent time to bring up wisdom because those leaving the comfort of the nest of their families are going to need an extra dose of that. Hopefully they will not be too stunned by life outside their parents home. Proverbs 4:7 tells us "Wisdom is the principle thing, therefore get wisdom and in all thy getting get understanding."  James 3:17 says "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without hypocrisy."

 As Christian parents it is our prayer that our children do not leave their faith and start questioning God's word, but sadly, many do. That is where we hang on the promise found in Proverbs 22:6 which reminds us "Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old will not depart from it."  A good memory verse for those leaving home is Proverbs 3:5-6 and it says "Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

Life is exciting. There is a saying I heard once that says we as parents have to give our children both 'roots' and 'wings' meaning you don't want to stifle an adult child but you need to let them make their own decisions with them knowing home is always there. Encourage them to be independent of mom and dad and trouble can be avoided down the road.

In closing, 1 Corinthians 9:24 says "Do you not know in a race that all runners run but only one gets the prize? Run  in such a way to get the prize." Encourage your children and those you may mentor to keep their eyes on Jesus no matter what and He will crown their efforts with success.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the Bible which is our guide through life here on earth and later in heaven. Father we pray our children will seek your face and run their race to win. Give them wisdom, courage, and perseverance always. In Jesus name. Amen.

 NOTE: For over 16 years since my sons were in junior high I have been privileged to be a part of a unique and awesome prayer ministry called Moms in Prayer(formerly Moms in Touch) where we pray for the children and schools they attend up through college, career and the military. Check it out at www.momsinprayer.org