Rice and Beans of Life: Speaking His Name

He's got purpose!

Sometimes I feel like David. There's a giant in front of me. I know those stones in my sling (a.k.a. promises in His Word) will slay any giant, conquer any fear and dispel any darkness that tries to destroy the warrior in me. I feel small, insignificant, incapable and like giving up before the fight even starts ... As I hurl that first stone I hear a whisper ... "you belong to Me" ... the faintest hope arises as I fling the next one ... "My thoughts define you" ... deep breath of growing confidence ... "I have called you by name" ...

These last few weeks one of my giants has been parenting "That one" ... you know, the one who all our decisions seem to be based around. I have hope! However, I was not feeling hopeful in regards to the giant of parenting This one. Let me back up a few years to set the stage ...

I was resting in Father's presence while listening to a challenging message how Father wanted to give me a new name. A name He was calling my spirit. During a time of waiting and reflection, I gingerly asked Father on behalf of our 4 Mighty Men ... "What do You want me to call them?" There was no doubt, no question, no hesitation ... as I said each of their given names and waited, He spoke to my spirit a new name for each of them. "That one," was to be called Tender heart.

Return to present day ... We've been walking the waters of a bullying situation at school which has caused a cascade of other issues. We heard his side, talked to the 'powers that be' at school and then he met with the school psychologist to talk some more. A plan was set, the process started and Father stood to fight this giant for me! Here's what He did ...

As my Tender heart met with the school counselor this is what she saw ... She was impressed that he was able to express himself completely in Spanish, without hesitation. She gained a better understanding of who he is and what his hopes and dreams are. The one thing she felt lead to share with me as an encouragement about him was ... "He has such a Tender heart." Of course I cried. A week later HE continued to fight that giant for me. The Art teacher pulled me aside during a 'random' encounter at school. "He is such an amazing student, he has future plans, goals, dreams and ... he has such a Tender Heart." Did they know they were calling out Father's name for him? Even in another language, HIS name is clear for This one. I may not feel victorious in my parenting of This one. However, He has called This one by name and it is HIS heart that beats in him ... giant defeated!

Defined by His thoughts ... Calling out his spirit ... What is your new name?

Life on the mountain
Full on attack, wrestling not against flesh and blood ... Donning the Armor ... Thank you for standing in the gap! ... "Effortless" border run, thank you Jesus! ... Sharing life with Sisters at a church ladies retreat ... Being refreshed by the constant chatter from a week of hosting our Akron neighbors in CR ... Feeling life and joy listening to Angelica's heart ... Celebrating Micah's 13th Spiritual birthday ... Guys/girls night ... Sharing Saturday Stromboli with friends ... Flinging stones and watching HIM topple those giants!

Praises
Decisions made ... after a home leave (date and time tbd) we're returning to CR for another term!
An English speaking counselor for Jedidiah
School administrators who listen, care and seek the best in situations
Sharing laughter and life with "The Kids and their Mom"
Long term Akron renters ... Father's faithful provision
Support, counsel and prayer from each of YOU
Exec leadership team who cares for each other
Stones in my sling ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIWvbD-8X8Y

Prayers
Micah's future plans
Random health 'stuff' for me ... In quietness and trust is my strength!
Housing for our home leave
Changes within El Nido
Kitchen, cook situation needing Father's wisdom and provision