Wall of Faith: Michelle - Big Brother, Little...

At almost four years old, my little boy zooms around the house in a cape and yells "Super hero to the rescue!" When I bring home groceries he proclaims, "I'm strong! I can carry that for you Mom!" And goes to grab the biggest box in the trunk. He loves to test his ever growing strength by wrestling with his Daddy. When he can tell that I'm distraught, he pats my back and tells me,"Don't worry Mom. Dad and I will protect you." He's my little Super Man and he melts my heart. He's my gift from God. We are overjoyed to announce that God is sending him a sidekick this spring.  

Dear Boys, 

One day you will learn that Superman was the figment of imagination of two teenage boys in the 1930's. You'll realize that Star Wars is fun, but fake. I pray that someday you will grow up and put childish things away and find true heroes.  Men who really lived. My sons, may you make these men your role models- 

Have limitless faith like Abraham. When things seem impossible, know that all things are possible through Him. 

Know how to apologize and forgive like Jacob and Esau. Brothers are a gift. Take care of each other. 

Listen to your elders and take their advice like Moses listened to his Father-in-Law Jethro. Listen to your Dad, Grandpas, Uncles and Pastors. They are good men. Follow in their footsteps. 

Choose your friends wisely like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Stick together. It's easier to take a stand when your friends are holding you accountable. 

When others mock your faith, keep believing and obeying like Noah. God will keep his promises. 

Persevere and live with integrity like Joseph. Do the right thing even when it's hard and it seems like no one is looking. God sees all. 

Be humble and give wise counsel like Mordechai. Be aware of world events and act on behalf of those in your care. Know others are watching your example. 

Do not try to live on your own strength and abilities. Know that the joy of the Lord is your strength and point to God as the source of your talents like Sampson ultimately did. 

Face your giants with courage knowing God is the one who fights your battles like David. Like him, be a man after God's own heart. Live your life after his lead and care for the weak like David took care of Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth.  

May God give you wisdom like Solomon. Don't ever be afraid to ask for guidance from God. Read, memorize and apply the book of Proverbs. 

Be like Boaz. May you earn the respect of your co-workers and neighbors and respond generously to those in need. Love each member of your family well. 

Bravely take on big, God-size challenges and stand back and watch God do the impossible like Elijah. But know that Elijah needed food, sleep and rest. You need this too. Eat healthy, exercise, brush and floss, go to bed at a decent time, nap...take care of yourself. You are a temple of the Living God. 

Superman had his weakness. Kryptonite was his downfall.  These biblical men were far from perfect. Some lied, cheated, some committed adultery and others murder...They were sinners. But they all believed in the one true God. Their lives and stories pointed to the ultimate Hero- our Savior, our Redeemer- Jesus. 

When you struggle with pride or frustration with life, wrestle with God like Jacob. 

When you question God's plans and directions, inquire him like Gideon and praise him like Job. 

When you doubt the faith, test the evidence like Thomas. 

Speak truth boldly like Peter and Paul. Encourage others like Barnabas. Hold unswervingly to the faith, no matter the cost, like Stephen. 

Know that these heroes really lived. Follow their lead. All of these men are heroes of faith. My prayer is that you will both be counted among them. 

Love, 
Mom