Our 9 Year Old, James

What can I say about our James? This boy is such a gift and I am so grateful for such an amazing first born. This has been such a year of growth for James as God has worked in him and saved him from his sin in Jesus! This entire year we have watched him wrestle with God, the truths of the Word and come to repentance from sin. On the 4th Jim had the privilege of baptizing James as he followed Jesus in obedience and going public with his faith. There is not much greater in life than seeing your children be saved by the amazing grace of God!

With this we have also seen growth in James in all other areas of life. He has become such an amazing big brother, playing with his siblings, taking care of them and stepping up in responsibility. He has grown in his diligence in work, his creativity and how he handles stressful situations. It has been amazing to watch him grow, and I am so thankful to God everyday for the work He is doing in James's heart.

James does not know a stranger. He will ask you anything and has very little filter because he tells you how it is. While a bit embarrassing at times, I greatly appreciate his honesty, as we see God growing him in honesty. James loves to write and draw. He is very creative and has recently finished his first book, illustrations included! He also enjoys coming up with games for everyone to play together. God has made him a natural leader and it is exciting guiding him in learning how to be a leader under God's authority.

James tells us he wants to be a builder so he can build churches! He has mentioned being a pastor before as well, but being a builder he talks about more. It will be exciting to see how God grows him in these areas.

We are so thankful for James, and the life he adds to our family.

Father, thank You for James! Thank You for saving him! Thank You for how You are working in his life to grow him in You and make Him more like Jesus. We pray that he will grow in wisdom, in stature and in favor with God and man. We pray his desires would be Yours and that You will guide all his steps. Give us grace to teach him what it means to follow You in everything with all that he is. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen!

This is the cake James wanted for his birthday, a book that said "Eat This Book"!
I love the creativity of this crazy boy!