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August 30, 2011 by Spreading Joy

Son, Always Remember

[Translate]

Always Remember....

As my son, Todd, starts his third year of Bible College I want him to remember a few things.  I know he’ll have a lot of questions, hard times, joyful times and everything in between.  I jotted these down on the back of a card’s envelope as I was eating dinner one evening beside Lake Hamilton in Arkansas.

I’m proud of you Todd.   I love you dearly. 

Son, here are a few things you should remember:

  1.  You were built to serve the Lord SUCCESSFULLY
  2. The better your relationship with God, the better all others will be
  3. Protect it! (The relationship) Hear warnings that might threaten your relationship with God.
  4. Ask yourself “What am I built to do?”  Categorize it and then look for God to lead
  5. Don’t just look for the writing on the wall, listen for the whisper
  6. Know storms will be coming…..remember you’ll be accompanied by the Master of the Wind
  7. Now that you are ready to fully surrender, satan will say “why” or “you can’t.”  IGNORE him! He is a LIAR.
  8. Don’t forget where you’ve been! It has and will prepare you for where you are going and who you’ll help
  9. Look through the eyes of compassion as you make your way through the day
  10. No matter what….I LOVE Y O U!

 

US in the middle of a CRAZY day of "little things" that went wrong

 

 

What would you add here?

What words of wisdom would you give my 20 year old…or any 20 year old?

Do you remember these things as you make your way through the day?

 

 

 

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Comments

  1. 1

    Phil says

    August 30, 2011 at 11:07 am

    Have trust and patience in the Lord for his timing is perfect in ALL things. 🙂
    Phil recently posted..What Church Is Not

    Reply
  2. 2

    Bridget Willard says

    August 30, 2011 at 11:12 am

    I’d add this: Use Scripture to interpret Scripture. Be A Berean. If something doesn’t sit well with you, then research it.

    And pray always!!

    Enjoy your semester!
    Bridget Willard recently posted..Friday Church 8/12/11 #SundaySetlists

    Reply
  3. 3

    Christine @LifeVerse says

    August 30, 2011 at 11:48 am

    My youngest daughter will be 20 in 10 more years, so this is the advice I would give her then:

    Love the Lord with all your heart, mind and soul (Duet 6:5) as the enemy prowls and looks for young adults to devour. Be a model citizen for Christ by wearing His name in your heart. Filter all decisions and relationships through the Holy Spirit and ask for wisdom. Center your life on vertical thinking by looking UP to God, an audience of One. Resist horizontal thinking and world views. As we near the end times you will be attacked for your beliefs. Stand firm with the shield of faith and God inside you, victory is already won. Live for One.

    Reply
  4. 4

    mcProdigal says

    August 30, 2011 at 11:59 am

    11. You are blessed with youth. Know that your biggest successes and biggest failures are ahead of you. Embrace difficult choices as opportunities for maximize one and minimize the other.

    12. Embrace complexity in human relationships, presume it, let yourself be surprised when things are simple.
    mcProdigal recently posted..The Sights and Sounds of Enabling by Diane Viere and Elaine Altman-Eller

    Reply
  5. 5

    Angie (Ginny gin-gin) as u said :) says

    August 30, 2011 at 12:03 pm

    Todd – there is nothing that I can say that your Mom hasnt. Stay close with the Lord. Keep the relationship with HIM FIRST above everything … even Love … once you have that realationship with HIM ,, everything will flow through it. I love you very much and am proud of you. I miss you also. Was fun seeing you everyday during the summer.

    Reply
  6. 6

    Kmac4him says

    August 30, 2011 at 1:02 pm

    Hi Todd! You have a wonderful mom! One of the coolest things about God is He was, He is and He will ALWAYS be. God is always being and for sure you, Todd, will have an Advocate Who is always BEING for you. God Is For You! Never Forget That! So when this AWE-GOD takes you down an unfamiliar road that you are not at all comfortable with, just “grow with it” because His Kingdom purposes are always in play for your good, you can count on that Todd. So my wisdom is to always “Give God Time To Work”, don’t be impulsive when He breaches your comfort zone. Stay Put, Positioned In His Grace, Trusting Him, Because You Know All Things Seen Will Eventually Be All Kingdom Good, As Your Advocate God Works Out His Sovereign Will From The Unseen Into Your Seen Reality! Enjoy College Todd! God Bless You Much!

    Reply
  7. 7

    Aunt Jeanne says

    August 30, 2011 at 2:32 pm

    Always Remember:

    God has a plan that only YOU can fulfill.
    Choose your friends wisely or they will choose your direction in life.
    Always have some alone time with God and LISTEN as He speaks to you.
    Look for the roses among the thorns – satan is the god of this world and he puts thorns everywhere.
    You’ve read the back of the book and “WE WIN”, don’t ever lose sight of that – especially in the difficult times.

    Todd,
    You are a very specail young man and God has Great plans for your life. You don’t have to be in the ministry full time to fulfill those plans, BUT if that’s what He has called you to do……DON’T RUN FROM IT ! ! ! We were very blessed to have you in the teens and to watch you (even from birth) grow up. Keep your eyes focused on God and remember all the people that love you and are praying for you ! ! ! !

    Reply
  8. 8

    Bridget Haymond says

    August 30, 2011 at 3:53 pm

    Dear Todd:

    I feel like I know shince I’ve heard so much about you from your mom when we have coffee together. I’m sharing with you the 20 things that I would share with my daughter too!

    1. Always remember that even if you were the only person in the world who would say yes to Jesus, He would have come to save just you because that is how much He loves you.

    2. Be a good example and you will be able to lead others by simply doing what you know is right in each situation.

    3. Always look to the future with the eyes of faith, knowing that God’s love for you is greater than any obstacle you may face.

    4. God gave us two ears and one mouth and I think it is because He wanted us to do twice as much listening as speaking.

    5. Always live big and thing big, never shrinking back from the things God has put in your heart.

    6. Remember be true to who you are and don’t live for the approval of others. People can be fickle and God’s approval is the only one that really matters in the end.

    7. As much as possible I encourage you to spend your time and energy in your areas of strength, while praying for God’s grace in managing your areas of weakness.

    8. Always remember that the “winners” in life are not necessarily those who have it easy. Real winners are those who overcome adversity and provide a good example for others in the process

    9. While there are many things in life that are beyond your control, the one thing you can control is your attitude. I’m convinced that attitude is a major influence in how we play the game of life. It is what sets people apart; it defines the winners from the losers.

    10. Your life here on earth will pass quickly. Therefore make it your goal to live each day with an eternal purpose, knowing that Heaven is your ultimate destination.

    11. With greater freedom comes greater responsibility and when you have been faithful with a little bit, more will be given to you.

    12. Begin taking small steps in the direction of your heart’s desire and allow your gifts to bless others and bring you joy . If the God of the universe has gifted and equipped you, He’ll guide you and help you see things through.

    13.? It is a real blessing to have the balance of being able to appreciate and value others, while being confident in who you are. Always remember that the greatness within others will never diminish the greatness that God has placed within you.

    14. Tomorrow is not guaranteed, so live as if today were your last day on earth, but plan for the future as if you’ll live forever.

    15. God’s purpose is continually being worked out in and through you. Ultimately your “mess” becomes His “message” so remember that you are a messenger and participant in God’s kingdom work.

    16. As you live freely and generously toward others, you will in turn experience a greater measure of freedom in your own life.

    17. Maintain an attitude of thankfulness. Giving thanks enlarges the heart and removes smallness and pettiness that would try to creep in.

    18. Mistakes and failures from your past are not your identity. They are only events, that will be points of growth and character building, but they do not define you and you must not let them box you in

    19. In the busyness of life we must be vigilant to guard those things that you value and make time for them. The things you value are crucial to our sense of life purpose and when left behind, frustration soon sets in.

    20. All of us leave a legacy behind and if you live right, yours will be a legacy that will live on forever!

    Blessings to you,

    Bridget
    Bridget Haymond recently posted..When Your Dreams Are On Hold

    Reply
  9. 9

    @michaelharrison says

    August 30, 2011 at 9:15 pm

    Marie –

    That is a powerful word for Todd or any young person heading into a world of spiritual work and warfare. Your words are right on and strong. Thank you for sharing here on the blog.

    If I was to add anything, it would be “as you consider your options don’t go into minister if you can do anything else”. God desires for us to enjoy life, to have joy and give joy in life as well as to experience the abundant life. That only comes with surrender.

    The truth of God giving us the “desires of our heart” is one we must not miss. He changes us along the way. He also gives us passion along the journey. That is passion to pursue Him and to pursue the purpose He put us on earth to be about. Those whispers you mentioned, Marie, are so often the place where God screams at us. Makes the “be still and know that I and God” thing come to life.

    God intends for you to be a success, Todd. But your success doesn’t depend on how much money you make or how big a splash you make in this world. Your success is utterly and completely based on your ability to follow God’s lead. Follow with your head held high and your heart open and with your hands prepared to serve the people you will meet along the journey.

    Zig Ziglar, a great life coach and influencer of thousands of people for years, said that we will reach our dreams only as we help others reach their dreams. By serving people who can’t repay you or serve you in return, you will find powerful confidence in God and purpose. Press on. Serve strong. Love God!
    @michaelharrison recently posted..changed by God’s grace

    Reply
  10. 10

    Pastor Paul says

    August 30, 2011 at 10:00 pm

    Todd…I pray Our Father will open your Spiritual Eyes to His Truth…walk in the Spirit & you wont fulfil the lust of the flesh;to walk by Faith not by sight;that your opposition is Satanic not flesh & blood.The Wisdom of God is the Principal Thing & with it pursue understanding.It’s Faith in Him that overcomes the world’s spirit & system;that nothing is impossible for God & those who believe in Jesus Name,Amen
    1.There’s only One Super Star in your Ministry…Jesus & if He’s not…what are you doing & who are you serving?(Lk6:40;2Tim2:19)
    2.Obedience is Better than sacrafice…if you Love Me you’ll obey Me!The alternative…Jonah’s Fish Trip!(1Sam15:22,23;2Tim2:15)
    3.Willing Obedience is not Obligatory…it flows from relationship of Trust & Confidence & He will Bless you for it.(Isa1:19)
    4You’re Not Doing God a favor by serving Him & He doesn’t owe you anything for service.(Lk17:5-10)
    5.God’s not a respector of people,doesn’t prefer one above another,but He does Value Faith & reward it.(Heb11:6)
    6.Competiveness & comparisons between Ministers always Ungodly & definitely Unprofitable.(Mth24:43-51)
    7.Don’t allow yourself to become Disillusioned;realizing the world’s not waiting for you;it’s waiting for Jesus or Discouraged because of it doubting your Call;nor Fatigued by leading your own efforts,not following Christ’s leadings,neither Overwhelmed by people’s pain where you can’t serve them.(1Tim4:12-16;2Tim15-19;Lk17:5-10). Todd;stay close to Jesus,never forget your Call & develop & protect your Anionting in Christ. If you’re ever Wondering…Is Jesus for me…Jesus Is Always For You…the Question…Todd are you for Jesus?!(Josh5:13-15) God Bless you Todd with His Distinct Clarion Sight for Souls & His Powerful Love to Go into The World & Harvest with Jesus millions of them in Jesus Name.And Todd,Jesus will always pay His bills & yours too if you believe! I strongly suggest you…Believe your God will meet All Your Needs & Never Doubt it! (Phil4:19) In my prayer… Pastor Paul

    Reply
  11. 11

    Jeff says

    August 30, 2011 at 10:21 pm

    Every morning read a chapter of Psalms for courage and a chapter of Proverbs for wisdom. Pray the Ephesians prayers over yourself daily.

    Reply
  12. 12

    Ruth says

    August 30, 2011 at 10:23 pm

    Todd,

    1. Remember to focus on the teachings of JESUS and look to GODs word for answers. The Sword of the Spirit is GOD’s Word and it is only by His Spirit working in you that wil enable you to follow His Plan for your life.
    2. Pray alone whenever possible. Then, be sure to pray for and with others for them and for yourself.
    3. Jesus always prayed to The Father for help. Humble yourself, and God will lift you up to fulfill His Purpose.

    Reply
  13. 13

    Giacomo says

    August 30, 2011 at 10:44 pm

    Ah, youth, energy, focus. All the things I no longer have! LOL! This is the most extraordinary time of your life: YHVH knows it, His messengers know it, and so does your enemy. Now is the time for discernment, because there will be many temptations coming near you, none of which will be uncommon to man. Now is the time to be strong and prove yourself a man, and keep the charge of YHVH your Elohim (G-d)!

    You are already blessed and highly favored. Stay that way!

    G-Man

    Reply
  14. 14

    Kevin Adams says

    August 30, 2011 at 11:25 pm

    Todd…

    1. Be surrendered instead of committed
    2. Get intimate with God – His voice is there
    3. Focus on how much God loves you – your love for Him will grow from that.
    4. Live by Matt 6:33 as your mandate
    5. Remember that God is the provider and you are His conduit
    6. Make sure others see “Christ” instead of a “Christian”
    7. Love your mom & never forget how much she loves you 🙂

    May God continue to bless you brother as you seek Him with all that you are.
    Kevin Adams recently posted..#19 Okay, Life’s Unfair… So Where Do We Go From Here?

    Reply
  15. 15

    soulsupply says

    August 31, 2011 at 4:18 am

    Hi Todd …

    3 brief thoughts and 1 link:

    Thank God so much for the pond of faith you have swam in all your life.

    Difficulties do not dispel a call ~ they confirm it.

    The impossible is available to those who rely on the eterrnal.

    This link is to SoulSupply’s Life directions for a son…. http://bit.ly/rhJJP3

    Abundant blessings for much fruit reproduction all your life Todd.
    soulsupply recently posted..soulsupply: RT @Praying4Teens: The teen-inspiration Daily is out! http://t.co/lV46zup ▸ Top stories today via @biblestudyforu @soulsupply @jaki_bent …

    Reply
  16. 16

    Elizabeth Roberts "Buff" says

    August 31, 2011 at 4:41 am

    Dear Todd! You have quite a bit to think about and digest with all the above! To sum up 25 years of focused “walk” I would have to say the bottom line for me could be summed up in a quote from the book “Inside Out” by Dr Larry Crabb. “But do it all for the purpose of better knowing God, yourself & others so you become more loving.” Ministry means taking on the hearts of others which is the highest calling, yet humanly most challenging.
    2 Timothy 24-26 tells us “A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people…” This world is hurting; looking for love that won’t let them down; love that won’t condemn or compare in self righteousness; to see Christians BE a sermon rather than give one.
    It’s a tall order as we count the cost but as you are committed to Christ , remember it is He that has promised to be faithful to YOU and ; ” As a follower of Christ, hang on to the promise of Philippians 1:6. God, not your own power, will carry you on to completion. (Jim Burns HomeWord).
    I cannot imagine how proud your parents must be!
    In Christ,

    “Buff”

    Reply
  17. 17

    El LaGrew says

    August 31, 2011 at 5:11 am

    In addition to the advice, let me quote a John Wayne truism. “Talk low, talk slow…and not too often.” Blessings! –El
    El LaGrew recently posted..You are the Light

    Reply
  18. 18

    Sean says

    August 31, 2011 at 5:38 am

    how wonderful it is to be called by our Lord to His study and preparation. We were all called to be sojourners w/ Christ. The sadness of being away from blood is the gift of the chosen. Suffering this temporary loss opens the heart to Christ as only pain can. W/ an open heart r Lord can fill u w/ the light of empathy, compassion & love, & the understanding for others who may go thru much more. I would finally say it is an honor to be enveloped by love away & more so at home base where prayers go up for u ea moment breath is taken. The blessings of r Savior be with Todd, u and ur entire family this scholastic season. {HUGS}! Be well Mama bear. He’s in great hands!

    Reply
  19. 19

    Tina V says

    August 31, 2011 at 7:02 am

    I can not think of a thing to add. That being said I wish him all the luck as he moves forward in this new school year. May you continue to enjoy every moment you have together and on every occasion (school breaks). You 2 are so cute together and you can see the love in your eyes. Blessings to your family. Much love and (((hugs))) Tina V

    Reply
  20. 20

    Sandy Sandmeyer says

    August 31, 2011 at 7:17 am

    I just read this last night and it really meant so much to me and for me. I was going to say to be a light of Jesus in the world; be His hands and feet. BUT, I want you to know this:

    In every generation, the Church’s remnant is the comparatively small company of wholly surrendered, uncompromising “disciples indeed” who continue walking closely with Jesus while the majority of their professing Christian peers live in spiritual lukewarmness or full-blown apostasy. ~Greg Hinnant

    So, Todd, be that uncompromising remnant of Jesus! Best of luck to you!
    Sandy Sandmeyer recently posted..Never Beyond – Even Darth Vader Was Forgiven

    Reply
  21. 21

    sojourner says

    August 31, 2011 at 7:38 am

    You will run into people that will tell you unimaginable stories. You will be tempted to not believe them, be tempted to refer them to a mental health clinic. They want more than anything to be listened to and be believed. This is where you ask Jesus what to do, listen for that whisper. They probably will test you to see if you can be trusted. Again allow the voice of God in your heart to direct your words and actions. Too many have been rejected in some form by pastors and the church.
    Matthew 25:24 – 46
    http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025:34%20-%2046&version=NASB

    Reply
  22. 22

    Pastor Mike says

    August 31, 2011 at 8:15 am

    Just like you, Todd, my daughter is 20 and in her third year in college ~ except secular. She is sold out for Jesus in a world and amongst professors who hate His name. Jesus is using and is going to use your generation. As a man of God, stand strong -> “for such a time as this.” (Esther 4:14b)

    P. S. You sure have your mother’s smile. 🙂

    Reply
  23. 23

    Deanne MacBurnie says

    August 31, 2011 at 8:53 am

    Be Still and know that I Am God! This verse is always with me and I quiet myself and wait for God’s leading! Blessings to you Todd, grow strong in Jesus <3

    Reply
  24. 24

    Callie says

    August 31, 2011 at 9:24 am

    Dear Todd,

    Wow … 20 and goin’ on in the Lord, that’s GREAT! You are in your element, and have no doubt accepted and embraced your calling. Stay head strong and focused. Many young people need you to be that example in these last and evil days that we are living.

    You have a wonderful mom!!! Her inspiration, love, and prayers go along way for you. I’ve joined in agreement with your mom’s prayers for you!!

    God bless you son, now and forever forward!!

    Miss Callie 🙂
    Callie recently posted..MySurvey

    Reply
  25. 25

    Moyo Mamora says

    August 31, 2011 at 10:52 am

    I’ll reiterate 3: Maintain your devotion with God, the special time you spend away from the noise just to be alone with Him; Remember He is your first love, and He is the reason why you’re doing what you’re doing. Don’t be caught up with the work

    2 Tim. 2:15 “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

    Preach the Word! Leave out your opinions, but go straight to what the Word says and let God speak through you

    Reply
  26. 26

    Clark Osborn says

    August 31, 2011 at 2:38 pm

    Todd,

    Everything you need to know, everything you need to do, everything you need to be… the John 10:10 fullness of it is only birthed from a place of intimacy with God. Prioritize that relationship and time with Him, and you will walk in as much of the John 10:10 & Ephesians 3:20 in your life as is possible. The enemy, the world and even religion/ministry will work tirelessly to steal the time and attention that Jesus desires from you. Guard it with your life! (Proverbs 4:23)

    Quiet time with God ~ If you’re not intentional ~ It just won’t happen

    “Attention, all! See the marvels of God! He plants flowers and trees all over the earth, Bans war from pole to pole,
    breaks all the weapons across his knee. “Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God,
    above politics, above everything.” Psalm 46:8-10 (MSG)

    Many Blessings!

    Reply
  27. 27

    Terry Novich says

    August 31, 2011 at 7:28 pm

    I want to say how fabulous it is to see so many wonderful, useful, truth filled replies going out to those of us who are going into a world that doesn’t all ways see the real point to life, which is, of course: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength – that’s ALL.

    Reply
  28. 28

    Jane Reed says

    August 31, 2011 at 9:18 pm

    What a wonderful mom you have! Always remember how truly blessed you are in every single area of your life. Keep praise in your heart to the Lord in ALL circumstances, even the rough ones. Know that you may go into valleys, but the Lord will walk with you through them!

    Congratulations on your third year!!!

    Many Blessings!!
    Jane

    Reply
  29. 29

    yvette says

    August 31, 2011 at 9:53 pm

    In all your ways acknowledge HIM & HE shall direct your path! I would encourage in every step you take, consult God first on it. I learned this the hard way and wish I had done that when I was 20. and no matter what, the joy of the lord is your strength!

    Stay encouraged Todd! What a beautiful mom/son relationship!

    evie730

    Reply
  30. 30

    tom puhlman says

    August 31, 2011 at 11:48 pm

    Trust the Lord with all heart. Don’t fall behind in your study. Remember your mother always. Call home all the time keep reading your bible to guide you. Also enjoy got to have we some fun .

    Reply
  31. 31

    Virgil says

    September 1, 2011 at 8:04 am

    My word of wisdom for your son would be to follow the directions Mom has given & he is assured of success in this life & life to come

    Reply
  32. 32

    Marie says

    September 1, 2011 at 8:11 am

    wow!

    I’m getting to a place today where I can stop and read all of the wonderful words of advice! My heart is soooo thrilled. I need to figure a way to print these off and frame it for him. Thank you guys sooo much for how you’ve truly given words to inspire! I’m going to post this to his fb wall so hopefully his friends at college can see too.

    Thank you sooo much! you guys bless me so!

    if you haven’t gone back and taken the time to read the comments, I hope that you will. It’s some mighty good stuff there!

    {{{HUGS}}} yall and thanks again! you are ahhhmazing at Spreading JOY!

    Reply
  33. 33

    Sandy Sandmeyer says

    September 1, 2011 at 12:35 pm

    Marie, this came to my inbox today via All Pro Dad: http://www.allprodad.com/blog/2011/09/01/what-your-kids-need-to-know-that-they-wont-learn-in-college/

    The list is great and I haven’t watched the video yet, but I’m sure it’s worthwhile as well.
    Sandy Sandmeyer recently posted..Never Beyond – Even Darth Vader Was Forgiven

    Reply
  34. 34

    BlancaV says

    September 1, 2011 at 11:46 pm

    Todd,
    I’m excited about the future God has planned for you. I’m sharing the “Top ten reasons to trust God” that I shared with my daughter. I’m not the original author – they were from a wonderful greeting card.They are appropriate at any time.
    Stay focused on the goal.
    Big God Hugs,
    BlancaV

    Ten reasons to trust God with your future

    10. He planned your life before you existed
    9. You get a 24-hour hotline that’s available your entire lifetime
    8. His training manual is a best seller
    7. Miracles are part of His outstanding reputation
    6. He doesn’t ask questions about your mistakes
    5. What He says goes
    4. He knows your boss and he has your back
    3. His rewards are not performance-based; he’s crazy about you
    2. He promises satisfaction guaranteed on things like food and clothing
    And the Number One reason to trust God with your future
    1. Everything He does is because He loves you!

    Psalm 40:5 (Contemporary English Version)
    You, LORD God, have done
    many wonderful things,
    and you have planned
    marvelous things for us.
    No one is like you!
    I would never be able to tell
    all you have done.
    BlancaV recently posted..The fuzzy, glassy-eyed look at life

    Reply
  35. 35

    Colleen Foshee says

    September 2, 2011 at 12:17 am

    Boundaries are important. Don’t tell others what to do – just tell them what you’re going to do.

    Reply
  36. 36

    Bruce says

    September 2, 2011 at 1:41 pm

    Don’t run with a stick.

    Reply
  37. 37

    Chris Love says

    September 2, 2011 at 5:54 pm

    Todd,
    As I read through all the fine things said above, I see that a lot of people have some very good advice and words of wisdom. I will add my personal thoughts here in a little different way.

    First of all, and most important to me, remember your parents. Their actions, love, advice, corrections and concerns. You will never find anyone else with the same level of love and concern for you and your future. Remember them separately as well. Each having their own contributions to the man you are now and the man you will become.

    Being a mommy’s boy myself (not indicating you see yourself as one), never be afraid to be one with your mom. God gives all of us “little boys” the gift of a mother who will be there for us. She can, and will, provide safety and comfort in life’s hardest times.

    Your dad is now and will always be your best friend. Never fear asking him the tough questions. He has already lived a lot of what you will encounter.

    And finally, never loose sight of your inner-child. Keep the perspective of awe and wonder. The sweet memories of times past, good and bad. It will make your view of life better and allow you to see things in many perspectives, often missed, but often needed.

    My parents have been home with our Creator for sometime now yet they are always an influence in my life. I have long since left the years know as childhood yet I still like to look at the world as a little boy. Soaking in what wonders I see and looking for ways they could, should, or are different than what most see.

    I know you have been given a great foundation to build your life on. It is now the time where you will finish the rest. But remember, without the foundation (which is what the first things I said lend to) the house will not stand. It will always be there. Just do not loose that perspective.

    Reply
  38. 38

    Gina says

    September 3, 2011 at 9:07 am

    Always remember that it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it … whatever it may be
    Gina recently posted..To Paris (with a little help from my friends) via a Greeting Card

    Reply
  39. 39

    Alan Jones says

    September 3, 2011 at 12:43 pm

    The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge, meditate on the book of PSALMS and PROVERBS.
    Follow the Lord while you can find him and he will make your paths straight.
    Do good and good shall come to You.
    OTHERS.

    Reply
  40. 40

    Terry Pittman says

    September 3, 2011 at 1:30 pm

    Proverbs 11:25 and I claim it daily….”A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed”.

    Reply
  41. 41

    ms. nothing says

    September 3, 2011 at 1:50 pm

    Todd with God to light your path and your parents cheering you on (Remember they are your biggest fans) I don’t see you moving in any direction except FORWARD! I pray the Lord will pave all of your paths with the Victory that you already have in Christ. Just keep walking in Him and you will ALWAYS do well <3
    ms. nothing recently posted..Jesus Is NOT Our Ticket for Bigotry!

    Reply
  42. 42

    Marie says

    September 5, 2011 at 8:10 am

    Wow, you guys continue to bless my heart!! Awesome words from your hearts!

    Thank you sooo much!!!

    {{HUGS}}

    @spreadingJOY
    Marie recently posted..Thank You

    Reply
  43. 43

    Chris Love says

    September 8, 2011 at 1:25 pm

    IF….

    IF you can keep your head when all about you
    Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
    If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
    But make allowance for their doubting too;
    If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
    Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
    Or being hated, don’t give way to hating,
    And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise:

    If you can dream – and not make dreams your master;
    If you can think – and not make thoughts your aim;
    If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
    And treat those two impostors just the same;
    If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
    Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
    Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
    And stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools:

    If you can make one heap of all your winnings
    And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
    And lose, and start again at your beginnings
    And never breathe a word about your loss;
    If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
    To serve your turn long after they are gone,
    And so hold on when there is nothing in you
    Except the Will which says to them: ‘Hold on!’

    If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
    ‘ Or walk with Kings – nor lose the common touch,
    if neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
    If all men count with you, but none too much;
    If you can fill the unforgiving minute
    With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run,
    Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
    And – which is more – you’ll be a Man, my son!

    Joseph Rudyard Kipling

    I found this researching FDR. It was his favorite poem and may very well be mine now. It makes a lot of sense and holds a lot of truth.. Hope you enjoy and come away with some new incite. Chris

    Reply
    • 44

      Ashley O. says

      September 10, 2011 at 10:58 pm

      This is one of my favorite poems of all times. It says so many positive things. It’s great for anyone at any age.

      Reply
  44. 45

    Kristen says

    September 12, 2011 at 8:14 am

    Know that things will get tough, usually wnen you least expect it. Then, when you think they can’t possibly get any worse…they will. Don’t listen to the voice screaming at you to give up. Listen to the whisper saying “I’m here, all you have to do is call on me”. Life will throw surprises at you and you will question everything and everyone you know to be true. Don’t feel as though because you have questions you’ve failed. Know that your questions will lead to answers, and those anwers will lead you back to the one constant and truth in life. Remember, God took 6 days to build all of creation and then he rested; you can’t expect to do everything in one day. Life is in the little details, don’t overlook it. Finally..plan for tomorrow but live like you may not see it.

    Good luck in all things!
    Kristen recently posted..Everyone should try to set their house on fire-then flood it just for good measure.

    Reply
  45. 46

    Tracey says

    September 20, 2011 at 10:44 pm

    Todd, I am sorry for the delay. Your Mom is a wonderful lady one that I know loves you with all her heart. That is why she has shared her family with all of us. She is very proud of you and wow has she got so many reasons to be =)
    Here is what I would like to say…

    -May you know that life will bring challenges but God is always in control. When life becomes crazy remember that you are not alone. God has a plan for you this is why we are unique in our own way. God wants us to meet others that are not like us so that we may learn from them. You never know what special gift you are going to offer someone or what blessing you may gain from strangers =)

    -Remember to laugh at yourself. Sometimes we get caught up in life that we forget to enjoy all that it has to offer. Live in the moment. It’s the small things that can bring us the biggest joys eg letter from a friend, crazy picture that reminds of us memories of places we’ve been, Mom singing you a song over skype =) . Take in those moments and share new ones with friends.

    -Remember to take time for you. Get out and do something crazy like having breakfast for dinner or make dessert before dinner. Ok you can see I live on the edge =)

    -Get out and enjoy the sunset by the ocean. It’s amazing when you sit there and just take in all that God has made. From the waves washing up on the shore, to the birds flying high in the sky, the sound of the wind and the waves crash, the beautiful colors on the day fading to night. The work of His hands …wow it’s amazing. Life is good.

    -Remember that God has chosen you and wouldn’t have it any other way. Protect your time with Him. God has so much to share with you..don’t miss out on a moment with Him. You’ll never regret it =)

    Good luck Todd.
    Tracey

    Reply
  46. 47

    Spreading Joy says

    September 17, 2012 at 7:27 am

    My son started his Senior Year of Bible college just a few weeks ago. As a graduation gift, I think I will have this formatted, printed and framed for him. I hope you’ll add your thoughts here if you have not already and thank you!

    {{HUGS}}

    @spreadingJOY

    Reply
  47. 48

    Harry Willer says

    September 17, 2012 at 9:33 am

    God is pouring His spirit out on you and Making His Word known to you. Let the Word of God grow in your heart and Life! You are a Mighty man of God! Go will open many doors of opportunity for you that no man can shut! Preparing is never wasted time you will be able to stand strong because you prepared! God will bless you for taking time to study His word at Bible college. Be Blessed in all that you do. Psalm 1.

    Reply
  48. 49

    Enoch says

    March 20, 2014 at 10:25 am

    I pray the Lord be with Todd and help him navigate the path of life

    Reply
  49. 50

    Tony says

    January 8, 2020 at 6:47 am

    You’ve made it simple but with a powerful meaning. God bless you!
    Tony recently posted..Nothing Feels Better Than Using Peaceful Mind Bible Verses As An Inspiration For A Happy Life

    Reply
  50. 51

    website says

    March 25, 2022 at 1:05 pm

    Craig co-hosts the Cool Tools Show podcast with Lars Schmidt – He
    Instagrams and tweets @fishdogs and blogs at
    website recently posted..website

    Reply

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