Over the past fourteen years, we’ve reached this milestone three other times with our older sons, but something is different about this time around. This time it’s our little girl turning thirteen-an official teenager I’m finding out the hard way; it’s a whole different story when it’s a girl. She’s been talking about this milestone for over a year and planning for her birthday party for over a month. Photo booth, nail/hair salon, games, twinkle lights, and snack bar were set up way in advance for the big day. She even cleaned the basement weeks ago in hopes that it would stay that way for her birthday sleepover. God knows her brothers never did any of that.
“In this digital age, our children are being bombarded with so many different messages. It’s hard to distinguish truth from lies...”
The world our daughter, Makenzie, is living in today is so different than the world I grew up in or even the ones her older brothers did just 10 years ago. In this digital age, our children are being bombarded with so many different voices and messages. It’s hard to distinguish truth from lies which is why my heart wants to keep her little forever. But I know that’s not possible or healthy. God wants our children to grow in mind, body, and spirit. God wants our children to grow in wisdom and faith. Which is why I feel compelled to share some timeless truths with our daughter as she reaches this important milestone in her life. Maybe you need to be reminded of these truths too.
Happy 13th Birthday, Makenzie! On this big day, I wanted to share some promises with you that are super special to me. Dad and I love you so much and pray for you daily, but there is someone who loves you more than we ever could. Your Heavenly Father is crazy about you and has some special promises for you. I hope you will hide them in your heart forever and cling to them when the enemy tries to trick you with his lies. Makenzie, these are God’s promises to YOU. As a matter of fact, He had you in mind when they were written...
Dear Makenzie,
I am crazy about you! I love you more than you could ever imagine. (Ephesians 3:14-19)
You are fearfully and wonderfully made by me. (Psalm 139:14)
I’m the one who knit you together in your mom’s belly, and I still know every hair on your head. I know exactly how many days I want you here on this earth. Don’t waste any of them. You are a daughter of the King of Kings. (Psalm 139) (Luke 12:7)(John 1:9-14)
I know things are tough at times, but always remember that I can make beautiful things even out of ashes. Be strong and courageous, my daughter. I promise to be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9) (Isaiah 61:1-3)
You don’t have to be afraid no matter how dark or scary things get. I am always with you. I will never leave you or abandon you. As a matter of fact, I put your mom and dad in your life to take special care of you. They prayed for you long before they knew your name, and I answered their prayers. (Deuteronomy 31:6) (1 Samuel 1:27)
Trust me Makenzie and commit all your plans and ideas to me. Love others the way I love you. When you love others, you love me. If you do it my way; I will keep you on the right path and blow your mind with blessings. (Proverbs 3:5-6) (Psalm 37: 4-5) (Ephesians 3:20-21) (Matthew 22:36-40) (Jeremiah 29:11)
I am a jealous God though and need to be number one in your life. I want to be the one you love more than anyone else in this world.There will be all kinds of guys who will try and steal you away from me. Save yourself for a man who will go through ME to get to YOU. (Revelation 2:4-5) (Exodus 20:5)
Makenzie, find your happiness in things that make ME happy. Don’t chase after things like money, guys or other fun looking “stuff”. None of that will make you truly happy. It will all leave you wanting something more. (Philippians 4:10-13) (1 Timothy 6:6-10)
Keep your guard up and your armor on. Don’t let Satan worm his way in. He’s sneaky and wants you to reject me or even just doubt me. He will try and tell you all kinds of lies.
(2 Corinthians 11:14) (Ephesians 6:10-17)
Remember, with me, all things are possible. (Philippians 4:13)
You don’t have to worry or be afraid. I’ve got your back. (Isaiah 52:12) (Isaiah 41:10)
My Word is truth. Use it as your guide. Hide it in your heart. Speak boldly for me. Always be prepared to give a reason for the hope that you have. (1 Peter 3:15-16) (1 Timothy 3:16) (Hebrews 4:12-13)
And most important never forget how much I love you! I sent my son to die for you. No one can ever take that away. (Romans 5:8) (Romans 8:37-39)
Love,
God