There are usually two ways for me to handle these moments. I can lie there awake playing the various worst case scenarios in my head until I work myself into a panic. Or I can cast my anxieties on Him because He cares for me (and for my children). Be assured, I do both. But it goes much better for everyone if I give these moments of crazy panic to Jesus.

The next morning can also go one of two ways. I can resent the lack of sleep. Or I can be thankful for my time of prayer.

I’ve been reminding myself lately that this time of prayer is a gift. Think about it. Apart from times of crisis, very few people are going to wake in the middle of the night to pray for one of MY children regarding their ordinary daily difficulties.. Therefore, if I don’t cry out to God on their behalf, who will? I’ve been given the gift of children. And I’ve been given the gift of being an intercessor for my children to the Creator of the universe concerning those daily, sometimes little and sometimes big, issues of life.

Lord, teach me the joy and power of praying for my kids!