trying out

It's try-out season and I am a bundle of nerves.  No question about it, my kids are handling the process much better than I.
I couldn't sleep last night and I kept asking myself why?
What is it that I am afraid of?
That they will fail?  That they will be disappointed?
I don't think so, since I am actually a huge believer in acclimatizing kids early to the realities of life.
Is it my own pride?
Ugh.
Probably.
OK, yes.
It's hard as parents sometimes not to want to live vicariously through our children; especially when you are a type-A competitive person and especially when your children are experiencing success.
As difficult as this time of year always is for me, I know and trust that my heavenly Father has a perfect plan for each of my children.  A plan to prosper them and not harm them.  A perfect plan for their success. 
I also know that the best thing I can do for my children is to take my eyes off of the here and now and focus instead on Jesus who sees all that I can't and who understands completely the purpose behind everything my children experience and go through.

Jesus, I thank you for the gift of each of my children; for the wonderful, beautiful and miraculous blessings they are in my life.
I pray that you would bless and reward their efforts over the next few weeks.
Help me to keep my eyes on you.

As for God, his ways are perfect. 

All the Lord's promises prove true.  God arms us with strength, he has made the way safe. 

He makes us surefooted as the deer and prepares us for battle.

You have given us the shield of your salvation. 

Your right hand supports us and your gentleness makes us great.

You give great victories and

show your unfailing love to your anointed.

(Psalm 18)