By Darcia Kunkel

So They Can Fly

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6   English Standard Version

My daughter heads off to her first year of college in a couple of weeks. Letting go of my teenager is hard. She is my firstborn, and a natural leader. She also has a heart for ministry, children, and military veterans.

Like other parents, I often wonder if I have given her the firm foundation, confidence, and skills she will need to navigate life on her own.

• Will she stand firm in her beliefs or be swayed by others?
• Will she be disciplined with coursework and money?
• Will she make good relationship choices?

No matter how much I worry about, or try to micromanage, my children’s lives I must remember that God has given me all of the tools I need to help them grow and thrive for His purposes. I must let them spread their wings, and trust that God knows the plans he has for them.

My daughter needs to find her own way, not just that which I desire for her. It is my role to remain supportive through both her successes and her failures. I can offer advice, but not judge each and every decision. If I do, I am not really trusting in God’s process and timing.

• Will it be difficult to watch her move a state away?
• Will I worry about her safety and well being?
• Will I miss her joy, laughter, and direct contribution to this family?
• Will I miss seeing her each and every day?

Yes, but I also take comfort in knowing that she is God’s child, and as such the full power of His plan and direction is with her. The Holy Spirit goes in front of her to guide and sustain her. Her future is bright, and I will celebrate as she spreads her wings to fly on this journey!

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,
plans for welfare and not for evil,
to give you a future and a hope.”
Isaiah 40:31   English Standard Version

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