• HOME
  • Blog
  • ABOUT
    • Meet Dianne
    • Meet Jesus!
    • Book Recommendations
    • What I Believe
    • Contact Me
  • Resources
  • Categories
    • Meaningful Quiet Times
    • Consistent Bible Study
    • Praying with Purpose
    • The Christian Life
  • Shop
  • View Cart
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
Dianne Thornton

Dianne Thornton

May 9, 2016 · 20 Comments

When What You Want For Mother’s Day Changes

This post may contain affiliate links. You may read my Disclosure Policy here.

The Christian Life

40shares
I used to look forward to breakfast in bed on Mother's Day. With older teenagers who will soon be gone from my nest, what I really want has changed.

I used to look forward to breakfast in bed on Mother's Day. With older teenagers who will soon be gone from my nest, what I really want has changed.Yesterday was Mother’s Day—the day moms across America look forward to for 364 days. Breakfast in bed. Someone else to clean the kitchen. Receiving cards expressing appreciation and love. Maybe even a thoughtful gift. And what mom who tirelessly and selflessly serves her family doesn’t need it? She certainly deserves it!

I used to look forward to those things. They are wonderful and so much fun. But my kids are older teens now—with their own lives–busy and full of everything you can imagine. Good stuff, too! With all of that, what I really wanted for Mother’s Day has changed. I still enjoy some of the pampering. Honestly, though, I went into the weekend wanting something else. By the time the weekend was over, however, God showed me something even more important.

About a week ago, my kids had these plans:

  • Mom, my friend has her dance recital Saturday night. We’re all going and I need to let them know if I can, so they can get a ticket for me. Pleeeeease, can I go?
  • Mom, I want to go see “Civil War” with my friends from lunch.
  • Mom, that big project that’s due in a couple of weeks? My group is meeting this weekend to make huge progress on it, and I have to be there.

I pulled the Mom card.

I love for my kids to support their friends and their friends’ activities. I think Captain America is awesome! And I am totally pro-project. But there will always be activities and events they can attend to support their friends. Our family enjoys an occasional trip to the theater. “Civil War” will still be around when we do. Turns out, there were others students who weren’t able to participate in project prep last weekend. And not every friend was able to make it to the recital—because it was Mother’s Day weekend. And that’s OK.

My kiddos weren’t happy—but only for a little while. When one of them was frustrated with my “not this weekend,” I shared the following verse and explained that honoring our parents and grandparents is one way we honor the Lord.

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12)

Honoring our parents and grandparents is one way we honor the Lord.Click to Tweet

What I want these days is my kids’ time–the one thing they have the least of, or are the most reluctant to give away to Mom or Dad.

Once they got over the hump of disappointment, we shared loads of laughter, caught up on other movies we missed and had a couple of special meals. We spent some time with grandparents, and I enjoyed watching my daughters work on an art project for our home. It was a precious weekend.

When my kids were younger and required so much physical energy, I needed the physical break that Mother’s Day brought. But now that my kids are older and we have a fair to moderate amount of stress in our home, I could care less about that stuff. It’s nice, don’t get me wrong. But I want the relationship more than I want a clean kitchen!

Then I read this in one of my cards:

“Thank you for being overly-helpful because I know you are just trying to make my life easier.”

This one was under a tremendous amount of stress, and I was on mom-overdrive trying to help her through it. Although I didn’t know it at the time, she had everything under control. My “overly-helpfulness” caused her additional stress. If she hadn’t worked it out already, I could have kept her from an important growing opportunity.

God reminded me of something my mom told me time and time again. When I was struggling with a life issue that had her concerned, she said, “I trust the Lord with you, because you belong to Him.” (Occasionally, she still tells me this. Being a mom never ends!)

I used to look forward to breakfast in bed on Mother's Day. With older teenagers who will soon be gone from my nest, what I really want has changed.I need to do the same with my kids. They belong to Him.

As they stretch their wings and seek independence, I need to let them fly! Entrusting them into the Hands of the One who created them.

This is the letting go. And. It. Is. Hard!

All I really wanted for Mother’s Day was their time and happy hearts. Thankfully, I was able to enjoy just that. 🙂

But what God wanted me to experience on Mother’s Day was the confidence in Him to leave my kids in His hands and entrust them to His care.

With one daughter on the verge of getting her license–this tough lesson is coming none to soon. This lesson didn’t start this weekend. It’s one God has been drilling into my head and heart for a while. But the time to launch these kids is drawing closer than ever, and I must be ready to let them go.

My heart’s desire is for my kids to love the Lord with all their hearts, all their minds, all their souls, and all their strength–every day of their lives. This is my daily prayer for them.

But I know that they won’t feel this way every day. I didn’t. (Sometimes I still don’t.) It’s part of the growing.

But they do belong to the Lord. He is supremely trustworthy and can care for my children so much better than I can.

This year’s Mother’s Day, barely 24 hours ago, what I wanted–changed. I wanted to keep something, but God was preparing me to let it go.

Image: Pixabay (schneeknirschen, butterfly76)

(Visited 283 times, 1 visits today)
40shares

Subscribe to Receive a Free 5-day Mini Bible Study

Image

I would love to connect with you personally! Subscribe to my newsletter to receive regular encouragement in your walk with Christ, and get instant access to your free 5-Day Bible Study. Your personal information is important to me. I will not share it with, or sell it to, anyone. See my Privacy Policy here.

Previous Post: « 15 Brief, Yet Powerful Prayers for Persecuted Believers
Next Post: A Small Victory for This Overly-Helpful Mom »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. TAmmy McDonald says

    May 9, 2016 at 8:18 am

    Tears… Beautiful! They were God’s long before He lent them to me. Thank you for this beautiful ( but painful) message of letting go.

  2. Dianne Thornton says

    May 9, 2016 at 9:20 am

    It’s so hard, Tammy. But I’m glad we have one another to share this difficult leg of our journey!

  3. Jennifer Yates says

    May 9, 2016 at 9:39 am

    “I trust the Lord with you because you belong to Him.” Hard lesson. I’m still learning. Thanks for sharing. 🙂

  4. Dianne Thornton says

    May 9, 2016 at 10:26 am

    We’re learning together!

  5. Marva | sunSPARKLEshine says

    May 9, 2016 at 8:49 pm

    Amazing how God teaches us lessons when we feel we might not be ready for it. I’m still at the ‘breakfast in bed’ stage, and I think I’m going to try to enjoy it as long as I can. 🙂 But soon enough, I’ll get to where you are and wonder where all the time went.

  6. Dianne Thornton says

    May 9, 2016 at 9:32 pm

    Hopefully they’ll do that for you every year! It’s so fun!! As moms, we get good at treasuring … storing these things up in our hearts … whether it’s on Mother’s Day … or an errand day. Beautiful moments to savor all along the way … Love you, Marva!! Thanks for reading and commenting. 🙂

  7. Julie says

    May 10, 2016 at 9:22 am

    Thank you for being open to the idea of letting go. I was parented by someone who couldn’t quite manage this and it had a stunting effect on me. I am 41 and still making my way through the ill effects of her not letting go. My daughter is 9, and I already think of parenting an adult. I want her transition to adulthood to be smoother than mine was. I trust God to help us both now and down the road. Blessings to you!

  8. Dianne Thornton says

    May 10, 2016 at 12:50 pm

    It’s tough, Julie. You want what’s best for your kids. You want to protect them. But preparing them for independence means giving them more and more at home. So they are truly ready when they leave. It’s scary!!

  9. Betsy de Cruz says

    May 10, 2016 at 2:28 pm

    Dianne, this is such a thoughtful post. Good job. Letting go is hard, isn’t it? My son is back from school for 2 1/2 months of summer vacation. I’m trying to let him have some measure of independence while he’s back home. I remember what it was like to go home after college.

    Your post reminds me that I do entirely too much for my kids. Need to let them do more work, organizing themselves, etc. I’m probably “overly helpful” a lot of the time!

  10. ~Karrilee~ says

    May 10, 2016 at 2:31 pm

    Dianne, I love this! My own girlie is 21 today (her birthday) and has been moved out for almost 2 years already… but for a handful of years before that, her job required her to work all day on Mother’s Day. Since she was my only, I had the opportunity to pout about it (and I’m sure I did a bit –especially that first year!) but then my Honey and I found a new tradition. Now that she has changed jobs, she comes along with us to celebrate but letting them grow up and do their own thing is hard… and while you still CAN be the boss of their calendars, it’s a great practice to let them go sometimes and make them stay others! I think you chose well… it sounds like they do too!

  11. SUSAN SHIPE says

    May 10, 2016 at 3:23 pm

    Beautiful. I have missed your words. xo

  12. Dianne Thornton says

    May 10, 2016 at 3:35 pm

    Awwww … thank you so much, Susan. I’ve missed writing. It feels like life is finally slowing down a bit! LOVE YOU!

  13. Dianne Thornton says

    May 10, 2016 at 3:37 pm

    You’re so encouraging Karrilee. I appreciate that. I know the days are coming when they won’t be here! Another friend of mine used the term “hover mother.” I don’t think I really “hover” … I do try and allow my kids as much freedom as possible. But from their perspective, I’m sure I’m way too much in their business! Thanks so much for the encouragement. Blessings to you and Happy Birthday to your daughter!

  14. Dianne Thornton says

    May 10, 2016 at 3:39 pm

    Thanks, Betsy. You know, most of the time I think I let them manage so much of their own lives–for the express purpose of their maturing. But then, when I saw that in writing, I had to take my own double-take. All a process! Love you, Sister!!

  15. Ruthie Gray says

    May 10, 2016 at 9:29 pm

    Oh gurllll I’m feelin’ ya on this one! Sheesh, the letting go is NOT for the faint of heart! Yep, when mine were small, I wanted a break SO badly, but once they reach a certain age and you know you’re time is fleeting, you begin to dig in and hold on. Which is just about the time you need to start letting go.

    This was a beautiful post, girlfriend! I loved it. So much so that I’m actually going to feature it for next week’s Tuesday Talk!

    I do hope you’re doing well in this transition. You and your bed fan.

    …I’m still jealous over that. 😉

    PS do you mind if I copy and paste your graphic for your feature next week?

  16. Dianne Thornton says

    May 10, 2016 at 9:47 pm

    Oh, you bless me, Ruthie! Thank you for wanting to share it. Feel free to use whatever you want. (This also motivates me to have something else ready for next week! ) I appreciate you so very much!! Your insight and encouragement are treasures!!

  17. Abi says

    May 11, 2016 at 12:38 pm

    Appreciated this, Dianne. I’m learning to value the time and relationship more than the break (though that’s still essential now and then) . . . and praying that God would help me believe that He really does have their lives under control – to look at them and see in the midst of all the way I see I fail, God is developing them into His people. Thank you.

  18. Dianne Thornton says

    May 11, 2016 at 2:36 pm

    Thanks, Abi. It’s so true, that He is moving in their lives–even when (especially when) we fail. And YES to praying that would help me believe, too, that He is in control over their lives!

  19. Julie Lefebure says

    May 13, 2016 at 9:31 pm

    Hi Dianne! Beautiful post. Sounds like your Mother’s Day was such a gift. I’m with you… I’d rather have my kids’ time than anything else. Now that they’re grown, the times we spend together seem to be sparse. I’m so glad you were able to spend the day with your precious family! Good for you for pulling the “mom card.” Following you at Holly’s this week. Bless you!

  20. Dianne Thornton says

    May 14, 2016 at 7:38 am

    Thanks, Julie. It’s a different place, for sure. But with I my two more years with them at home, I’m re-evaluating so many different things.

If this is your first time commenting, your comment is held for moderation. Unless otherwise provided, I only retain your IP Address for the purpose of reducing spam on my site. You may read my full Privacy Policy here.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Primary Sidebar

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Readers Are Reading …

  • 3 Ways God's Word Cleanses Us
  • When God's Word Takes Root In Your Heart
  • 3 Ways God's Word Encourages Our Hearts
  • A Little Loved Lamb
  • Not a Sparrow Falls WITHOUT Your Father Knowing

Feb 17

24 3
Open
AS HIS FAITHFUL SERVANT, GOD HAS **SET YOU APART** ➡️ FOR HIMSELF!!⁠
⁠
Wow. That's powerful. ⁠
⁠
Do you have something very special that you keep in a special place -- just for you? (I'm not talking about hiding those special cookies. 😉😂)⁠
⁠
I love coffee mugs. But certain mugs are different than the others. One was a gift from a special friend. One looks a lot like one my grandfather let me drink from when I visited my grandparents. One is from Disney, and I don't let ANYONE use that one! ⁠
⁠
Yes, these are "just things." But they are special to me, and anytime I pull one of these mugs out of the cabinet, I remember why it's special. Why it's different from the mugs that match my dishes.⁠
⁠
In the Old Testament, “set apart” means to be ...⁠
⁠
=> distinctly different.<= ⁠
⁠
You are God’s faithful servant. He made you distinctly different from everyone else—for His purposes. God’s purposes for you are distinctly different from anyone else’s. ⁠
⁠
In the New Testament when we read the words “set apart,” they have the added meaning of being sanctified, or holy.⁠
⁠
God created you => to be holy for holy purposes. <=⁠
⁠
One such purpose is to be a messenger of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15)--showing others how they can be reconciled to God. What a privilege we have to be His messengers!⁠
⁠
My prayer for you is the same as that of Paul's at the close of his letter to the Ephesian church: ⁠
⁠
Whenever you speak [or write], may God give you words so you will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel and that you may declare it fearlessly, as you should. (Ephesians 6:19-20)⁠
⁠
Be blessed today as you proclaim the gospel of peace to a world that is crying out for it!!⁠
⁠
-----------⁠
✨ What other holy purposes has God called you to?⁠
⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠
⁠
#GodsPurpose #SetApart #TheGospel ⁠
⁠
#ReadingTheWord #EveryDayWithJesus #BibleAndCoffee  #QuietTimeWithJesus #BibleBlog #BibleQuotesOfTheDay #FixYourEyesOnJesus #ReadTheBibleDaily #ScriptureDaily #JesusChick #StudyTheBible #GodsWisdom #BibleStudies #GodIsEnough #MorningDevo #WordOfLife #BibleScriptures #WordBeforeWorld #Devotions  #JesusFollower

AS HIS FAITHFUL SERVANT, GOD HAS **SET YOU APART** ➡️ FOR HIMSELF!!⁠
⁠
Wow. That's powerful. ⁠
⁠
Do you have something very special that you keep in a special place -- just for you? (I'm not talking about hiding those special cookies. 😉😂)⁠
⁠
I love coffee mugs. But certain mugs are different than the others. One was a gift from a special friend. One looks a lot like one my grandfather let me drink from when I visited my grandparents. One is from Disney, and I don't let ANYONE use that one! ⁠
⁠
Yes, these are "just things." But they are special to me, and anytime I pull one of these mugs out of the cabinet, I remember why it's special. Why it's different from the mugs that match my dishes.⁠
⁠
In the Old Testament, “set apart” means to be ...⁠
⁠
=> distinctly different.<= ⁠
⁠
You are God’s faithful servant. He made you distinctly different from everyone else—for His purposes. God’s purposes for you are distinctly different from anyone else’s. ⁠
⁠
In the New Testament when we read the words “set apart,” they have the added meaning of being sanctified, or holy.⁠
⁠
God created you => to be holy for holy purposes. <=⁠
⁠
One such purpose is to be a messenger of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15)--showing others how they can be reconciled to God. What a privilege we have to be His messengers!⁠
⁠
My prayer for you is the same as that of Paul's at the close of his letter to the Ephesian church: ⁠
⁠
Whenever you speak [or write], may God give you words so you will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel and that you may declare it fearlessly, as you should. (Ephesians 6:19-20)⁠
⁠
Be blessed today as you proclaim the gospel of peace to a world that is crying out for it!!⁠
⁠
-----------⁠
✨ What other holy purposes has God called you to?⁠
⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies #FaithfulFollowers⁠
⁠
#GodsPurpose #SetApart #TheGospel ⁠
⁠
#ReadingTheWord #EveryDayWithJesus #BibleAndCoffee #QuietTimeWithJesus #BibleBlog #BibleQuotesOfTheDay #FixYourEyesOnJesus #ReadTheBibleDaily #ScriptureDaily #JesusChick #StudyTheBible #GodsWisdom #BibleStudies #GodIsEnough #MorningDevo #WordOfLife #BibleScriptures #WordBeforeWorld #Devotions #JesusFollower
...

Feb 10

19 6
Open
PSALM 15 IS SHORT, YET JAM-PACKED WITH GOODNESS.⁠ ⁠⁠
Tough goodness, but goodness all the same. I had to include all of it in my images. Scroll through the pages so you don't miss any of it.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
When I journaled through this Psalm, I was knee-deep in the edits for my Bible study, STANDING FIRM IN CHRIST: Biblical Principles for Fighting Spiritual Battles. Edits from my awesome editor and edits from my sweet friends who wanted this Bible study to be its best.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
Let me tell you, allowing trusted friends inside your writing world is scary! It's a good thing, but it can also sting. As I read through the psalmist's words, God brought a principle to my mind. You know the one--what's in our hearts shows up in our words (and even our thoughts!!).⁠⁠
⁠⁠
Psalm 15, explains that the *blameless person* enjoys a close relationship with God, and describes this person in detail. ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
This person SPEAKS TRUTH FROM THE HEART. In other words, it's not just the words this person speaks, but the response to difficult words! I wrote the following in my journal:⁠⁠
⁠⁠
"A blameless person's speech is wholesome. She doesn't just not curse--she encourages. AND she accepts criticism without being critical."⁠⁠
⁠⁠
Wow. That can be hard to do. Receiving edits can be a challenge. But what about when someone who cares about you confronts you (in love) about a difficult life issue? ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
How we respond to criticism is a test of what's really in our hearts.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
When our hearts are tender and match up with God's truth, our lives are built on a firm foundation that will never be shaken.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
✨ What other truths can we remember to keep our hearts tender instead of tough and critical?⁠⁠
⁠⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠ #StandingFirmBibleStudy⁠⁠
⁠⁠
#TruthInLove #Psalm15 ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
#ReadingTheWord #EveryDayWithJesus #BibleAndCoffee  #QuietTimeWithJesus #BibleBlog #BibleQuotesOfTheDay #FixYourEyesOnJesus #ReadTheBibleDaily #ScriptureDaily #JesusChick #StudyTheBible #GodsWisdom #BibleStudies #GodIsEnough #MorningDevo #WordOfLife #BibleScriptures #WordBeforeWorld #Devotions  #JesusFollower

PSALM 15 IS SHORT, YET JAM-PACKED WITH GOODNESS.⁠ ⁠⁠
Tough goodness, but goodness all the same. I had to include all of it in my images. Scroll through the pages so you don't miss any of it.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
When I journaled through this Psalm, I was knee-deep in the edits for my Bible study, STANDING FIRM IN CHRIST: Biblical Principles for Fighting Spiritual Battles. Edits from my awesome editor and edits from my sweet friends who wanted this Bible study to be its best.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
Let me tell you, allowing trusted friends inside your writing world is scary! It's a good thing, but it can also sting. As I read through the psalmist's words, God brought a principle to my mind. You know the one--what's in our hearts shows up in our words (and even our thoughts!!).⁠⁠
⁠⁠
Psalm 15, explains that the *blameless person* enjoys a close relationship with God, and describes this person in detail. ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
This person SPEAKS TRUTH FROM THE HEART. In other words, it's not just the words this person speaks, but the response to difficult words! I wrote the following in my journal:⁠⁠
⁠⁠
"A blameless person's speech is wholesome. She doesn't just not curse--she encourages. AND she accepts criticism without being critical."⁠⁠
⁠⁠
Wow. That can be hard to do. Receiving edits can be a challenge. But what about when someone who cares about you confronts you (in love) about a difficult life issue? ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
How we respond to criticism is a test of what's really in our hearts.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
When our hearts are tender and match up with God's truth, our lives are built on a firm foundation that will never be shaken.⁠⁠
⁠⁠
✨ What other truths can we remember to keep our hearts tender instead of tough and critical?⁠⁠
⁠⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies #FaithfulFollowers⁠ #StandingFirmBibleStudy⁠⁠
⁠⁠
#TruthInLove #Psalm15 ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
#ReadingTheWord #EveryDayWithJesus #BibleAndCoffee #QuietTimeWithJesus #BibleBlog #BibleQuotesOfTheDay #FixYourEyesOnJesus #ReadTheBibleDaily #ScriptureDaily #JesusChick #StudyTheBible #GodsWisdom #BibleStudies #GodIsEnough #MorningDevo #WordOfLife #BibleScriptures #WordBeforeWorld #Devotions #JesusFollower
...

Feb 8

28 9
Open
OUR THOUGHTS OF GOD ARE NOT GREAT ENOUGH. -- J. I. Packer⁠
⁠
The Scripture focus for Chapter 3 of ENJOYING INTIMACY WITH GOD, is Isaiah 40, which holds many favorite passages, including:⁠
⁠
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31, NIV)⁠
⁠
Isaiah 40 is lengthy, but oh, so beautiful. It was written to encourage Israel after her discipline (captivity in Babylon) was completed. God wanted them to know that He was fully worthy of their trust. ⁠
⁠
It is an interesting contrast. It describes man’s utter weakness—and God’s transcendence. But this God who is so other than anything we know, LOVES **US**. The God who made the universe, who holds the oceans in His hands, who never grows weary—is our friend. ⁠
⁠
Sanders shares the first verse from “How Great Thou Art.” It is fitting. ⁠
⁠
O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder⁠
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made⁠
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder⁠
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.⁠
⁠
In what ways, as you move forward to serve our King, do you need to fully depend on God? ⁠
⁠
I've been on somewhat of a social media hiatus--working tirelessly with my husband on some much needed household repairs/updates. Finding my way and rhythm back into this special world is a bit overwhelming!⁠
⁠
Let's remember, God goes before us and strengthens us for all He calls us to do.⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠
⁠
#JOswaldSanders #EnjoyingIntimacyWithGod #HowGreatThouArt #JIPacker⁠
⁠
#StudyScripture #LampToMyFeet #WordOfGodSpeaks #LovetheBible #LoveGodsWord #StudyGodsWord #BibleCommunity #JesusIsTruth #BibleBeliever #BibleWisdom #LifeWithJesus #DevotionalTime #BibleVersesDaily #WordOfGodSpeak #GodsWordIsTruth #JesusAndCoffee #BibleStudyMoments  #InTheWord #BibleTruth #SeekHimFirst

OUR THOUGHTS OF GOD ARE NOT GREAT ENOUGH. -- J. I. Packer⁠
⁠
The Scripture focus for Chapter 3 of ENJOYING INTIMACY WITH GOD, is Isaiah 40, which holds many favorite passages, including:⁠
⁠
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31, NIV)⁠
⁠
Isaiah 40 is lengthy, but oh, so beautiful. It was written to encourage Israel after her discipline (captivity in Babylon) was completed. God wanted them to know that He was fully worthy of their trust. ⁠
⁠
It is an interesting contrast. It describes man’s utter weakness—and God’s transcendence. But this God who is so other than anything we know, LOVES **US**. The God who made the universe, who holds the oceans in His hands, who never grows weary—is our friend. ⁠
⁠
Sanders shares the first verse from “How Great Thou Art.” It is fitting. ⁠
⁠
O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder⁠
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made⁠
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder⁠
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.⁠
⁠
In what ways, as you move forward to serve our King, do you need to fully depend on God? ⁠
⁠
I've been on somewhat of a social media hiatus--working tirelessly with my husband on some much needed household repairs/updates. Finding my way and rhythm back into this special world is a bit overwhelming!⁠
⁠
Let's remember, God goes before us and strengthens us for all He calls us to do.⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies #FaithfulFollowers⁠
⁠
#JOswaldSanders #EnjoyingIntimacyWithGod #HowGreatThouArt #JIPacker⁠
⁠
#StudyScripture #LampToMyFeet #WordOfGodSpeaks #LovetheBible #LoveGodsWord #StudyGodsWord #BibleCommunity #JesusIsTruth #BibleBeliever #BibleWisdom #LifeWithJesus #DevotionalTime #BibleVersesDaily #WordOfGodSpeak #GodsWordIsTruth #JesusAndCoffee #BibleStudyMoments #InTheWord #BibleTruth #SeekHimFirst
...

Jan 6

52 24
Open
Yesterday marked 30 years of loving this man!

According to tradition, the 30th anniversary is the Pearl Anniversary. I don’t know exactly why, but I surmise it’s because of how a pearl is formed inside an oyster.

A grain of sand, or some other irritant, finds its way inside. The oyster produces a substance that coats the irritant, eventually forming a pearl.

Irritants are plentiful in marriage. Tim & I have certainly had more than a few. Some of our own making, some we didn’t ask for. But God has been gracious and merciful to us. He has taught us how to love each other through them. He has taught us how to forgive when the irritant is something one of us did to cause the other pain. We are still learning. 

You could say love and forgiveness have formed in our marriage a string of pearls. 

There is no one else I’d rather walk this life with. Tim is God’s precious gift to me.

I love you, Sweetheart.

💞 What have you found that makes a difference in your marriage? That keeps you connected to your spouse? 💞

#diannethorntontx

 #PearlAnniversary #Married30Years #30thWeddingAnniversary #MarriageRocks #BlessedMarriage #GodAtTheCenter #GodCenteredMarriage #LoveCoversAMultitudeOfSins #LoveAndForgiveness

Yesterday marked 30 years of loving this man!

According to tradition, the 30th anniversary is the Pearl Anniversary. I don’t know exactly why, but I surmise it’s because of how a pearl is formed inside an oyster.

A grain of sand, or some other irritant, finds its way inside. The oyster produces a substance that coats the irritant, eventually forming a pearl.

Irritants are plentiful in marriage. Tim & I have certainly had more than a few. Some of our own making, some we didn’t ask for. But God has been gracious and merciful to us. He has taught us how to love each other through them. He has taught us how to forgive when the irritant is something one of us did to cause the other pain. We are still learning.

You could say love and forgiveness have formed in our marriage a string of pearls.

There is no one else I’d rather walk this life with. Tim is God’s precious gift to me.

I love you, Sweetheart.

💞 What have you found that makes a difference in your marriage? That keeps you connected to your spouse? 💞

#diannethorntontx

#PearlAnniversary #Married30Years #30thWeddingAnniversary #MarriageRocks #BlessedMarriage #GodAtTheCenter #GodCenteredMarriage #LoveCoversAMultitudeOfSins #LoveAndForgiveness
...

Dec 11

30 15
Open
THIS GIRL AMAZES ME!  She came over early so the Tim-Man could change out her tie rods. Well, the other day she purchased the right tools (including jack stands and a hydraulic jack) and replaced her strut and spring coil assemblies and the sway bar links ALL BY HERSELF!! Her daddy was SO PROUD when she showed him. 

This is so beyond me. But I am a proud mama! Happy Birthday, sweet girl!! We love you!! 

#diannethorntontx #girlscandoanything #proudmama❤️ #mustanggirl  #stanggang

THIS GIRL AMAZES ME! She came over early so the Tim-Man could change out her tie rods. Well, the other day she purchased the right tools (including jack stands and a hydraulic jack) and replaced her strut and spring coil assemblies and the sway bar links ALL BY HERSELF!! Her daddy was SO PROUD when she showed him.

This is so beyond me. But I am a proud mama! Happy Birthday, sweet girl!! We love you!!

#diannethorntontx #girlscandoanything #proudmama❤️ #mustanggirl #stanggang
...

Dec 7

48 28
Open
Claudia and I put together James’s Christmas arrangement. Still missing him like crazy. Yet we rejoice that James is celebrating Christmas with His Savior. 

⁠
#diannethorntontx #siblinglove #therewereneversuchdevotedsisters #griefjourney

Claudia and I put together James’s Christmas arrangement. Still missing him like crazy. Yet we rejoice that James is celebrating Christmas with His Savior.

⁠
#diannethorntontx #siblinglove #therewereneversuchdevotedsisters #griefjourney
...

Nov 18

21 11
Open
HOLY FATHER, GIVE ME GREAT LOVE FOR YOUR WORD AND THE TRUTH IN IT.⁠
⁠
May the Holy Spirit illumine truth as I read its pages. Teach me to use your Sword as my weapon against Satan.⁠
⁠
Help me to study it well, hiding its treasures in my heart.⁠
⁠
Bring to mind truth from Your Word for my needs today. ⁠
⁠
In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
⁠
----⁠
⁠
Collecting Scriptures as we read God's Word can be a great help for when we face temptation. Writing them in a journal on an index card or a sticky note keeps them "at the ready" for when we need them.⁠
⁠
If you struggle with memorizing Scripture, I have a resource to help you hide God's Word in your heart:⁠
⁠
The PSALMS Meditation Method is a set of worksheets that guides your meditation process so that you know a verse thoroughly, even though you may not have "memorized" it.⁠
⁠
You can find it in my SHOP under "Bible Study Helps." (See the Instagram links in my bio.)⁠
⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#SwordOfTheSpirit ⁠
⁠
#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus⁠

HOLY FATHER, GIVE ME GREAT LOVE FOR YOUR WORD AND THE TRUTH IN IT.⁠
⁠
May the Holy Spirit illumine truth as I read its pages. Teach me to use your Sword as my weapon against Satan.⁠
⁠
Help me to study it well, hiding its treasures in my heart.⁠
⁠
Bring to mind truth from Your Word for my needs today. ⁠
⁠
In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
⁠
----⁠
⁠
Collecting Scriptures as we read God's Word can be a great help for when we face temptation. Writing them in a journal on an index card or a sticky note keeps them "at the ready" for when we need them.⁠
⁠
If you struggle with memorizing Scripture, I have a resource to help you hide God's Word in your heart:⁠
⁠
The PSALMS Meditation Method is a set of worksheets that guides your meditation process so that you know a verse thoroughly, even though you may not have "memorized" it.⁠
⁠
You can find it in my SHOP under "Bible Study Helps." (See the Instagram links in my bio.)⁠
⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#SwordOfTheSpirit ⁠
⁠
#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus⁠
...

Nov 12

22 9
Open
HOLY FATHER, PROTECT MY MIND WITH THE TRUTH FROM YOUR WORD.⁠ Bring to mind Scripture I have stored in my heart for my needs today. ⁠
⁠
Where my mind is too busy, remind me to be still and know that You are God (Psalm 46:10) so I can sense the Holy Spirit's leading. ⁠
⁠
For any thoughts that do not honor You, remind me to ⁠
⁠
--set aside these thoughts⁠
⁠
--shift my thinking⁠
⁠
--and focus on things that are true, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. ⁠
⁠
In essence, I choose to worship YOU rather than anything else.⁠ (Philippians 4:8-9)⁠
⁠
As I study Your Word, please move that truth from my mind to my heart so I experience life change.⁠
⁠
Help me think properly about my circumstances today. ⁠
⁠
In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
⁠
-----⁠
⁠
Think about how your thought life affects your spiritual battles. Do any thoughts need to come under the authority of Jesus Christ?⁠
⁠
Drop an emoji if you are wearing the Helmet of Salvation today! 🙏🙏🙏⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#HelmetOfSalvation⁠
⁠
#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus

HOLY FATHER, PROTECT MY MIND WITH THE TRUTH FROM YOUR WORD.⁠ Bring to mind Scripture I have stored in my heart for my needs today. ⁠
⁠
Where my mind is too busy, remind me to be still and know that You are God (Psalm 46:10) so I can sense the Holy Spirit's leading. ⁠
⁠
For any thoughts that do not honor You, remind me to ⁠
⁠
--set aside these thoughts⁠
⁠
--shift my thinking⁠
⁠
--and focus on things that are true, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. ⁠
⁠
In essence, I choose to worship YOU rather than anything else.⁠ (Philippians 4:8-9)⁠
⁠
As I study Your Word, please move that truth from my mind to my heart so I experience life change.⁠
⁠
Help me think properly about my circumstances today. ⁠
⁠
In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
⁠
-----⁠
⁠
Think about how your thought life affects your spiritual battles. Do any thoughts need to come under the authority of Jesus Christ?⁠
⁠
Drop an emoji if you are wearing the Helmet of Salvation today! 🙏🙏🙏⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#HelmetOfSalvation⁠
⁠
#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus
...

  • Copyright © 2020 – Dianne Thornton | Pearland, Texas
  • Disclosure & Privacy Policy

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Reject Privacy & Cookie Policies
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non-necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.