“I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.”              1 Samuel 1:27-28

The passing of time is very evident when birthdays hit. Our sixth child just turned 8 years old the other day and it seems like we were just heading to the hospital for him to be born. He is such an interesting kid and is very comfortable in who he is. He never meets a stranger and what he thinks, he says. The way he loves the Lord is remarkable and it carries over to people, as it should. If he puts up a guard with someone, I trust him. This rarely happens, but when it does, I take it seriously. I hear many stories that start with, “You won’t believe what Eli said”.  Knowing Eli I never know what he will say.

When he was born, his heart had not fully closed up yet. It was our first experience with a child being rushed to the NICU. Thankfully, it closed up within a few hours and he has not had a problem since. He did tell me a few days ago that he can fill his heart getting bigger and bigger. I told him I often feel the Lord expanding our hearts to hold more love for Him and others. I know exactly what he is talking about. He loves well.

I have learned a lot from this kid. He is fearless and carefree. He is friendly, but still maturing. He is teachable, but has strong opinions. He is solid in his belief that God is who He says He is and calls him King. He accepted what Christ did on the cross for his sin and looks forward to heaven. He encourages and seeks out those who need it the most. I like to walk a bit behind him and just see what will happen.

As amazing as this boy is, he has also been challenging since birth. For that I am thankful. It helps to have one that knocks you back down on your knees and reminds you that you do not have all the answers. Humility has been the gift that arrived with Eli. Recently when my husband and I were talking about this child, he ever so gently pointed out how I need to let him grow up. There is a bit of fear because of his unpredictability. However, self-control and maturity do not happen without guidance. The Lord gave this child to us and I want him to grow into a man that is mature, unselfish and self-controlled. To throw off restraint is a bit expected of a child, but not for a man. The time to guide is now and I am a bit behind in some areas.

So as we jump into 8 years old, it might be a bit rocky for a bit. Change is never easy and increased discipline is hard on all of us. He was given to us and each and everyday I will give him back to the Lord in how I guide, teach and love. This is normal for us, but more needs to happen with this one. To build up and correct takes time and patience. He is worth it. A heart always comes before a chore. This kid has gifts that need attention and behavior that needs correcting. Parenting is not easy, but I am thankful for wisdom given by God every step of the way.

Eli, 8 is going to be great!!