"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5,6
(KJV)
For the past five years, I have been writing devotions here.
Much of the inspiration behind them is and has always sprung from the fountain of motherhood...
from being "mama" to one beyond special son whose very existence defies medical odds.
If you have been reading here for very long, you will know that Kevin and I struggled with infertility issues for a very long time, and, finally, after 12 1/2 years, God miraculously sent us the baby of our own for whom we had longed and prayed so many years.
(To read our complete infertility testimony, click here.)
From the moment they placed this sweet baby boy in my arms over 15 years ago,
Zach has been and is the joy of our lives and home.
Through him, God has opened a whole new world to Kevin and me,
and we never cease to be amazed over the fact that we are his parents.
I can honestly tell you that the wonder of it has never worn off and the miracle is never overlooked.
Even though I know how much Zach values his privacy,
I felt led to ask him if he would mind sharing his testimony with us here.
I so wanted to share a Christian testimony from a teenager who is doing their utmost to swim against the current in this evil age of time, and the person I most hoped would grant this wish is Zach.
I know how he lives.
I know how hard and diligently he prays and seeks God's face.
I know how much he hungers after righteousness, and I daily see the effort it takes for him to maintain a victorious Christian walk, in the midst of so much temptation and worldly pull.
I refused to pressure him or push him into this, and I only asked that he consider my request.
After initial hesitation and much prayerful consideration, Zach agreed to be interviewed.
I cannot emphasize enough the amount of courage it took for him to come to this decision.
The descriptive words and all answers are completely and uniquely his own,
uncoached and unedited,
and let me just say ahead of time, that I feel very unworthy and am very humbled by his kindness towards Kevin and me.
More than once, our tears flowed as we read his responses to the questions I asked.
We are eternally grateful to be the blessed ones he calls "Mama" and "Daddy".
Today and forever, we say, "thank You, Lord."
Without further ado, I gratefully present to you the
of
Son of 2 Wonderful Parents, Servant of the Lord, and Christian Teenage Boy,
Zachary Smith.
In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5,6
(KJV)
For the past five years, I have been writing devotions here.
Much of the inspiration behind them is and has always sprung from the fountain of motherhood...
from being "mama" to one beyond special son whose very existence defies medical odds.
If you have been reading here for very long, you will know that Kevin and I struggled with infertility issues for a very long time, and, finally, after 12 1/2 years, God miraculously sent us the baby of our own for whom we had longed and prayed so many years.
(To read our complete infertility testimony, click here.)
From the moment they placed this sweet baby boy in my arms over 15 years ago,
Zach has been and is the joy of our lives and home.
Through him, God has opened a whole new world to Kevin and me,
and we never cease to be amazed over the fact that we are his parents.
I can honestly tell you that the wonder of it has never worn off and the miracle is never overlooked.
Even though I know how much Zach values his privacy,
I felt led to ask him if he would mind sharing his testimony with us here.
I so wanted to share a Christian testimony from a teenager who is doing their utmost to swim against the current in this evil age of time, and the person I most hoped would grant this wish is Zach.
I know how he lives.
I know how hard and diligently he prays and seeks God's face.
I know how much he hungers after righteousness, and I daily see the effort it takes for him to maintain a victorious Christian walk, in the midst of so much temptation and worldly pull.
I refused to pressure him or push him into this, and I only asked that he consider my request.
After initial hesitation and much prayerful consideration, Zach agreed to be interviewed.
I cannot emphasize enough the amount of courage it took for him to come to this decision.
The descriptive words and all answers are completely and uniquely his own,
uncoached and unedited,
and let me just say ahead of time, that I feel very unworthy and am very humbled by his kindness towards Kevin and me.
More than once, our tears flowed as we read his responses to the questions I asked.
We are eternally grateful to be the blessed ones he calls "Mama" and "Daddy".
Today and forever, we say, "thank You, Lord."
Without further ado, I gratefully present to you the
Son of 2 Wonderful Parents, Servant of the Lord, and Christian Teenage Boy,
Zachary Smith.
Cheryl: Please tell us about yourself.
Zach: My name is Zach, and I am 15 years old. I have the two most wonderful parents that any child/teen could ever ask for, or possibly imagine, in my opinion. I have been raised in a Christian home my entire life, and Jesus' blood saved my soul when I was very young. Since then, the Precious, Holy Name, Jesus Christ, has taken an all new meaning for me. He is my Peace, my Purpose, and my Friend. He has brought me to new places and levels for His Names' Sake, and I feel completely unworthy of the amazing life He has gifted me with. With all my heart, I desire to somehow repay Him, with my (very flawed and imperfect) self.
Cheryl: We would love to hear about your Christian testimony. How long have you been a Christian? What led you to the cross of Jesus Christ?
Zach: I have been a Christian for approximately 10 years. As in many cases, I was saved at a small altar with my earthly father and Heavenly Father. Throughout the next few years my Christian life stayed relatively dormant, perhaps even declining somewhat. Eventually, God broke absolutely unbreakable bonds in my life, which led to me rededicating my life back to Christ. Since then, it has been quite the spiritual ride with many hills and valleys. But, through it all, the Lord has been a faithful and gentle Guide.
Cheryl: Living life as a Christian teenager in these days is extremely difficult. Never, in the history of our nation, has it felt more like swimming upstream against a raging current. There are so many temptations that are completely unique to this era of time…things people in past generations couldn’t have even imagined. Please share with us about what you feel are the biggest challenges facing teenagers who are doing their utmost to please God in these perilous times.
Zach: I must agree with you, it is difficult to be a Christian teen in these last days. There are more temptations in this era than ever before, pertaining to this generation. But to pinpoint a few certain areas, I would have to say that the new age of electronic "enlightenment" is wearing away at our morals, decency, polite manner, and even the ability to distinguish between what is fantasy and what is reality. Cell phones, television, the internet, and video games are causing precious moments of time to be lost forever, inconceivable evil to be unleashed into our private, once-safe homes, and disrespect and dishonor the ability to gain access into the minds of kids and teens alike through violence, making parents look ignorant, and the elderly look like a drain on society. Social media leads to hours upon hours of wasted life, and the loss of innocence and privacy. I am ashamed to admit that I find my own self spending so many wasted minutes on most of what I've mentioned above. So, the question remains. How do we rise above the entertainment and noise as Christian teens and adults alike? And ultimately we will realize the answer to this question; we can't. Only One Person was ever capable of rising above sin and evil entertainment His entire earthly approx. 33 years of life, and that was Jesus. And, only with His Help, so can we.
Cheryl: How do you stay encouraged, as you look around and see SO much Godlessness, and it feels that evil is winning the war? What do you do on a personal level to combat the discouragement and hopelessness that tries to settle in when it just feels too difficult to continue trying to do what is right?
Zach: To be honest, when I look around and see the overwhelming tide of evil that has been unleashed into our society, I am often discouraged. And though these two answers may not be the best, they have worked often for me. The 1st is to simply try to not think about it all. I've learned that trying to focus on working out my own spiritual life with fear and trembling is the best way to stay encouraged about what's going on outside of my life. And the 2nd is to realize that this is not permanent. Eternity is. This is just a small taste of what is to come, whether it be Heaven or Hell. This life will be over in the blink of an eye. Heaven and the Lake of Fire are forever. If you doubt this, I suggest you walk into a nearby nursing home and sit down with a nearby resident and ask them how quickly their life has gone by. Ninety-nine percent of the time, they will tell you how fleeting this life truly is. So, when it really comes down to the truth, it is not about this life or even what occurs in it. As Christians we're living this life for the next Life, which will be Eternal, where we will have no concern of what has happened, is happening, or will be happening here.
Cheryl: What is your favorite Bible verse? Why? Describe how it has helped you through rough times.
Zach: My favorite Bible Verse is simplistic, yet in my opinion, is some of the most empowering Scripture in God's Word. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13. When I recall these precious Holy Spirit inspired words, I realize that whatever I face, whatever I go through, God is with me, working through me, and truly strengthening me.
Cheryl: What is the most difficult thing you have yet had to face in life? What was your darkest day? How did your faith in God sustain you?
Zach: Truthfully there have been quite a few things. When I mentioned God breaking unbreakable bonds for me, He mightily did, but through several very painful experiences that, right now, I feel that if I disclosed what they were, it would be in a very harsh way, as I'm still fighting bitterness, to say the least. But one that I am willing to disclose is the death of my Godly, dear Grandmother on the date of April 28th, 2012. She was a very generous and caring Grandmother, who truly loved the Lord with all her heart. Losing her was extremely traumatic to say the least. But as I sat on the front pew at the funeral home with my parents, I knew the Lord was right beside me, and through that horrifying experience, I gained an entirely new appreciation and love for my Lord. He was with me in the fire of grief, just as He was in the fire with the three Hebrew children. He will do the same for all of us, whatever we are going through.
Cheryl: What has been the greatest blessing or life experience you have yet encountered?
Zach: I can never praise God enough for the many things He has done for me. But to name a single experience, it has been our recent move to another state. God has lifted my spirit, given me things I've never had before physically or spiritually. It is like being transferred from a dark dungeon to a castle, which has been quite a transition. There are truly too many blessings to count, but certainly this has been one of the most memorable.
Cheryl: Can you tell us about your strongest spiritual battles? How do you conquer and overcome when you are engaged in battling the enemy in these areas? What advice would you give to another teenager sitting in front of you who feels like giving up?
Zach: Obviously, as every teenager on Earth has to endure, my hardest battle in the present is Adolescence. I truly desire to keep my mind, actions, and soul pure before God. But, sadly, in this era of time, all entertainment, literature, and even language is directed to feed and appease our flesh and carnal nature. The internet offers an endless supply of pornographic pictures and videos. Television contains continual commercials causing both men and women to commit adultery even in their own minds. Video games include content that should never be seen by anyone, especially a child. Even at the supermarket, a Christian cannot escape temptation from unbelievably revealing magazine covers. Books, movies, cell phones...an unending supply of evil, temptations, and more. It's overwhelming. But God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. We can overcome. The best way I know how to conquer the enemy (in whatever form he is in) is to lean fully on Jesus Who, as I mentioned before, lived a perfect life. As my life verse states, we can do all things through Christ. We can resist. We can fight. We can conquer satan through the Power of Jesus Christ. So, to the teenager sitting in front of me, the first thing to say is that I know how you feel. It feels like there is no way we can overcome. But there is a way; Jesus. God has made us warriors, and He wants us to take up our weapons and fight. When I realize that I am fighting for a greater cause, I fight harder. I desire to fight for my Savior. To please Him. This is why we fight.
Cheryl: We would love to hear your point of view concerning the many years of infertility your parents faced before God sent you to them. How does it make you feel to know that God performed a great miracle in allowing you to enter this world? How has knowing this affected your life? How has it shaped your thought processes?
Zach: My parents were unable to conceive a child for 12 and a half years. Doctors declared it impossible for them to ever have a son. And yet here I am. It makes me feel low and unworthy before God. I still wonder why, why me? I find myself a failure so much of the time. But, God wants me here. It's inconceivable that I'm here (literally.) With the knowledge of this it has impacted me in such a way as that I know that I'm not here just to drift through life never doing anything for Him. None of us are here without a purpose. It makes me realize that God desires each and every one of us to work for Him and enlarge His Kingdom. It is our true purpose in whatever way He chooses for us to do it.
Cheryl: What are you most passionate about? Tell us about the things that bring you most fulfillment in life. What makes you happiest and causes you to smile the most?
Zach: Without hesitation, I am most passionate about serving Jesus, glorifying Him in everything I say and do. Doing His Will fulfills me completely. I am happiest when I am with my parents and know that I am pleasing Jesus.
Cheryl: Describe a perfect day for you.
Zach: A perfect day for me would be residing at where I live now, enjoying the peace and serenity of the area outside of our house, feeling the Lord's Presence with us clearly. I am truly living my dream.
Zach: Ministry has always called out to me in many ways. The feeling of doing God's Work in a large way would thrill me. I enjoy writing, and showing Jesus' Love to others. At this moment in time, I honestly don't know. I simply want God to completely and wholly guide my life.
Cheryl: What would you define as your greatest strength? Your greatest weakness?
Zach: I feel that I have no greatest strength without Christ. But I'd have to say my love for my Savior is my greatest strength. I have many weaknesses, I'm afraid. Out of them all though, I'd say my greatest weakness would be an overactive temper and inflexibility. I do not control my anger as much as I would like. I try to remember to transition the anger I contain into passion for Christ. That is an area I need much prayer in.
Cheryl: What are your favorite singing groups/singers? What are some of your favorite songs?
Zach: There are many in Southern Gospel but I do have some favorites. I greatly enjoy the Greater Vision Trio, with whom Rodney Griffin performs, and so many of the songs they release, especially "Looking For The Grace", "He Is To Me", "Put Out The Fire", and "Preacher Tell Me Like It Is."Also, The Kingsmen are one of my all-time favorite groups, as well, with many truly inspiring songs, such as "Battle Cry", "Cross of Grace", and He's Everything I Need". I also love the Kingdom Heirs, and many of their songs as well, such as; "Just Preach Jesus", "He Locked The Gates", and "We Will Stand Our Ground".
(You can read The Kingsmen's Lead Singer, Bob Sellers' interview by clicking here.)
Cheryl: What are your hobbies and favorite things to do when you are enjoying downtime?
Zach: I love to pray, read my Bible, spend quality time with my parents, read devotionals/Christian fiction/Christian biographies, and play video games. I enjoy collecting action figures, hotwheels with superheroes on them, and old memorabilia from a number of things.
Zach: My dreams and hopes for the future are innumerable. But to name some would simply to find my calling, and then do it for the remainder of time until God leads me to something new. To find a Godly and decent wife that would love the Lord more than I. That I would correctly raise my children, in such a way that they would love the Lord as much or more than I do. And of course to live a life that would please God until the day I pass away and that I would make Heaven my Eternal Home. This would be the perfect life for me.
Cheryl: What would you say to a teenager who is considering becoming a Christian in these difficult times? How would you advise them? What would you most recommend to them about the Christian life? What would you warn them most strongly about?
Zach: To that teen, I tell you that this will be the most fulfilling thing you could ever do. There's nothing better than serving Jesus. If you search the whole world over, you will never find the fulfillment and contentment that following Him brings. But I won't lie, it isn't easy. But going through life without Him isn't easy either. In fact, I'd much rather go with a Dear Friend on a treacherous journey than alone, wouldn't you? You will be persecuted in one way or another for your faith, but believe what you will feel on the inside is so worth it. And remember, the work is hard, but the retirement and benefits are out of this world.
Cheryl: What would you say to the parent of a teenager who has strayed from the Biblical teachings of their childhood?
Zach: The best thing you can do for him/her is pray. Once you have prayed, you've done your part. God has made us all with a free will, and sadly, some of us, no matter how Godly we have been raised, will depart from the truth we have been taught. Give them to Jesus. Continue to pray. Keep encouraged! God is not finished with your life or your child's life.
Cheryl: Please share some parting encouragement…anything God is laying upon your heart to say. If you were sitting down, face-to-face with each Homespun Devotions reader, individually, what would you say to them right now?
Zach: I have no idea what you are going through, my friend. But know that Jesus is here, right with you, and He will not leave you. I know it may feel like you are alone, but believe me, you are never alone. The blessings you will gain from what you are going through right now will be immeasurable. Keep going! You're nearly there!
Cheryl: How can we all pray for you, during this season of life? Are there specific needs you would like us to lift to the Father on your behalf?
Zach: I request that you would pray that I would draw closer to the Lord each and every day. That He would help me to keep from anger and bitterness. And that He would bless my parents, family, and friends. Thank you, and may God richly Bless you!
Dear Zach!
It is with so much joy, thanksgiving, and love that I say, "Thank you"...
for the blessing you are, for your respect and consideration of your Daddy and me,
for your Christian witness, and for the amazing gift you are to us and to this world.
I could not be more proud of you and more grateful to God for allowing me to be your Mama,
for allowing me to stay home with you and continue to homeschool you,
for every, single second He has given, is giving, and will continue to give me with you, God willing.
I love you with more love than my heart can hold.
Thank you, dear readers, for reading and for your loyal support and encouragement.
I ask that you PLEASE keep Zach in your daily prayers.
The past several years have not been easy ones.
Sometimes, the aftermath is as hard as harder than the storm.
We spend a LOT of time praying together, working through the issues,
and praising God for the things He is now doing in and through our lives.
I know God has a special plan for Zach, and I can only plead with Jesus every day to help
Kevin and me to know how to continue to raise him and to impart the wisdom we need to continue to pour into his life.
Please keep us in your prayers, too, as we truly realize that raising a child does not allow for "do-overs". We want to do the very best we can, and it will only be through God's abundant grace and mercy if we ever get any of this right.
God bless you, one and all.
To read previous
click the links below.
What an amazing young man! His wisdom is so far beyond his years, it's obvious that our Father has something very special for Zach.
ReplyDeleteIt's not often that we get to be encouraged by a teenager, another proof that God is doing great things in the life of your son.
Praying for Zach and all of you.
Awesome post. I know you're proud of Zach and I'm proud for you!
He's a good looking young man. Good job, mom.
Wow! I am SO blessed and humbled by your encouraging words, brother. You just don't know how much we appreciate you and the blessing you are to us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. May God bless you richly and abundantly for all you do!
DeleteI thank you from the very bottom of my heart, sir. I am certainly not worthy of your kind words. Mama reads your comments to us often, and you are always so encouraging. And I can't tell you how much I appreciate your prayers! Please know that you and your family will be in mine as well! God Bless you, and thank you again!
DeleteMy dear Cheryl, what a beautiful and touching post. May I just say you have a precious son and my oh my, he is quite the wise young man! I was touched by his passion and zeal for the Heavenly Father and truly inspired by his testimony for the Lord. And then to read of his deep love for his parents....it brought tears to my eyes.
ReplyDeleteYou have been richly blessed, sweet friend, and your son Zach has also been blessed to have such God-honoring parents. Your story reminds me of dear Hannah in the Bible and how she prayed for a child. As we know she was blessed with Samuel. I can't help but look at Samuel's life and his love for the Lord and see the same similarities in Zach. May he continue to grow in the knowledge and understanding of Jesus Christ.
Much love to you, sweet Cheryl!
Oh, sweet Stephanie!!! Your precious words touched my heart so deeply. I often think of Hannah and Samuel, also, and I feel such a heavy responsibility to make sure to live close to God and do what is right. I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and support and friendship, dear friend. God bless you abundantly!
DeleteYou have truly touched my heart! Thank you so much for your encouragement, Mrs. Stephanie! Believe me, if there is any wisdom in me, it ALL comes from the Lord. I am nothing without Him.
DeleteI so agree with you, I cannot fathom better parents than my own! But, I'm sure that most people feel that way. :) Samuel is probably my favorite Prophet (and Elijah) and I am beyond humbled that you would say that there would be any similarities in him and me. God Bless you, ma'am. Please know that you and your family will be in my prayers!
Zach thank you for your inspiring words, thank you for your great love for Jesus & that your desire in life is to serve Him, seek Him, & live full out for Him!! I will continue to pray for you & your family as you continue to do His great work!!
Delete1Timothy 4:12- Don't let anyone look down on you b/c you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, & in purity.
Missi, thank you ever so much for your sweet encouragement for Zach! You will never know how much it means to him...and to me. :) Sending you love and hugs!!
DeleteZach, what a blessing you are to your Mama and your Daddy! Your heart for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is so admirable! God has a wonderful plan, hope, and future for you. This is a question I heard Pastor Andy Stanley ask several years ago, and it has really helped me in some difficult situations..."What would a boy, just like you, do in a situation just like the one you are in, if he was absolutely certain that God was with him?" I will keep you in my prayers. Many blessings, Beth Willis Miller
ReplyDeleteDear Beth! You will never know how much I appreciate your precious words for Zach. You are such a huge blessing in our lives. Sending you much love, sweet friend. :)
DeleteOh my, what a blessing they are to me! Thank you so much for your kind words! And what a wonderful question, I had never heard that before. Thank you so much for sharing! You have no idea what your prayers mean to me. I can never thank you enough for those prayers. Please know that I will (God's Willing) be praying for you also! God Bless you!
DeleteA very moving and passionate testimony. A son to be proud of.
ReplyDeleteDiana
Thank you ever so much, Diana. Your encouragement is a true gift. May the dear Lord bless you abundantly!
DeleteThank you for touching my heart, Mrs. Diana. I find myself certainly nothing to be proud of. Thank you for your encouragement. God Bless you!
DeleteZach, this really encouraged my heart! I always pray for my younger brothers to love the Lord with such passion as you have!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, sweet Hannah! Your presence in our lives is such a dear blessing. Praying for you, my friend. :)
DeleteIt blesses my soul to know that anything about my post encouraged you, Hannah! Your missionary work for the Lord is so admirable! Always remember that you are not only making a Godly impact on Africa, but here in the Blogging Community as well! Mama was kind enough to purchase me one of the shirts you were selling as a gift, and I love it. God Bless you for your missionary service for Him!
DeleteDear Kevin, Cheryl and Zach... I can't tell you how rich this testimony is, and how incredibly powerful it is to hear a teenager filled with such zeal and desire to live a sold-out life to the Lord! As Zach spoke so earnestly and frankly about the many temptations and pitfalls that trouble our youth today, it was wonderful to hear him acknowledge the problem, and the solution too... which is looking and turning to Jesus. What a bright and shining light your witness and testimony is Zach! The Lord has His hand upon you, even as He did Samuel. Continue to be sold out to the Lord, and allow the Lord to unfold His plan in your life. He has one, and He will lead you and guide you. And there is a precious young lady waiting out there that the Lord has hand-picked just for you. You won't need to look to find her. The Lord has a plan for both your lives and in His time, it will be made known.
ReplyDeleteI'm so blessed and encouraged to read such a precious and powerful sharing of the heart of a teenager in love with the Lord.. Dear Cheryl and Kevin.... the Lord indeed has gifted you with a precious blessing, and I know that as parents you couldn't have done a finer job as parents than what you have with the Lord's help.
As always dear Cheryl, it such a blessing to visit your blog and be encouraged!!! Hugs to all :)
Dear, precious friend! Where do I begin? I just cannot thank you enough for your kind, encouraging words, for your sweet presence in our lives, for the faithful friend you are to us! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you say and do to lift our spirits and to support us on this Christian path. You are an amazing blessing to all of us, and we love and appreciate you so much!
DeleteOh my, I feel so low and humbled by your words! I am certainly not worthy, only Jesus inside me is worthy. All glory and praise be to Him! There are not enough words to thank you for this encouragement! Please know that you have been such an encouragement to Mama so many times, that often when she gets your kind packages and letters in the mail she weeps. God Bless you for the incredible blessing you are to us and to so many others!
DeleteWhat a wonderful testimony from your son. All teenagers should be encouraged to read this. Zach must be such a blessing to you....and equally , you to him.
ReplyDeleteDear Elizabeth! Thank you ever so much for your kind words and encouragement. May the dear Lord abundantly bless you and your dear husband. Sending you much love across the miles!
DeleteYour kind words and encouragement are greatly appreciated! Only the Dear Lord Himself knows the blessing my parents are to me! God Bless you!
DeleteCheryl. This is my favorite one so far. How sweet is your son? What an amazing man. His maturity blew me away and clearly he has his eyes focused on Jesus. You should be so proud. This was so touching.
ReplyDeleteDear Caroline! I know it is very biased, but it is surely my favorite, also. Zach touched our hearts time and again by his words. All glory be to God for His amazing love and mercy to us all. Thank you for your precious friendship and encouragement to my family and me. Sending you much love and gratitude and trusting God to bless you with your miracle soon. I pray for you often, sweet friend. :)
DeleteDear Zach,
DeleteYou are very brave and courageous to do this interview. I would have been frightened to face your mom's questions.
As you say, life is very difficult these days, especially for a young person like you. Not only are there too many temptations in one's way, but the world has become more cruel and cynical than it was when I and your parents were young.
When I was much younger than you, I had an authograph book and I asked friends and teachers at school to sign it and say something. One day I asked my dad to write in it. He wrote: "Keep your mind set on the things that are in Heaven, not on things here on earth!” Little did I know at the time, and I found out later, that he was quoting Colossians 3:2.
My advice to you is the same.
God bless you and your parents.
Dear Victor! What a blessing you are to all of us. I LOVED the advice you shared with Zach. He will be responding to comments later. God bless you, my friend. :)
DeleteThank you very much Mr. Victor! Your advice is so appreciated and I heed it with much soberness and respect. I find it so amazing that you mentioned having an autograph book for friends and teachers. I also have an autograph book for people I respect, and I try to pray for the people in that book every day. You have no idea of the Blessing you have been to our family. Thank you again for your advice and encouragement. God Bless you!
DeleteOh my, I am so humbled and unworthy of your words, Mrs. Caroline! I am nothing without Jesus, all praise and glory be to Him! Thank you so much for your encouragement. Mama has mentioned you and your husband's fight with infertility, so please know that you and your husband will be in my prayers. God is not finished with your stories yet. Keep encouraged, and don't give up! God has great rewards for those that wait upon His timing! God Bless you!
DeleteHi, Zach! I couldn't help feeling by reading this that you've been given so much at such an early age! Your mother is wonderful and I'm sure your dad is as well. What a jump start to a journey of faith in Jesus Christ you have. I am praying for you to reach your full potential in Him in your life as already at 15 you are a blessing to society with your depth of faith and wisdom! I found it interesting that you mentioned the dark time of losing your grandmother. You articulated your feelings so well. I wondered if I could ask you to pray for a friend of mine, Austin, who just graduated high school and lost his grandfather yesterday. He is broken and not a believer. I'm thinking you would know just how to pray for him. God bless you, Zach. I am so happy you wrote this because now when I pray for your family I can imagine your handsome face and all that you stand for. God bless you and keep you.
ReplyDeleteMy dear friend, you are such a blessing to us! You will never know how much I appreciate your encouragement for dear Zach. I am SO sorry to hear of Austin losing his grandmother, and I will surely be remembering him in my prayers. May the God of all comfort hold him extra close. Sending you much love and many blessings, sweet friend!
DeleteMy goodness, I hardly know what to say besides thank you. Your encouragement is so humbling. I have been Blessed with amazing parents to say the very least. I greatly miss my Grandmother's godly advice and even her presence at our little Christmas Parties and such. I am so sorry to hear about Austin losing his grandfather, and that the wound is so fresh for him. I will certainly lift up his name to the Father, and pray that Austin will come to depend upon, and ask the Lord into his heart in this extremely difficult situation. Thank you for your prayers, you will never know what they mean. God Bless you, and know that you will be in my prayers!
DeleteHi, Zach, I enjoyed reading your interview and your testimony. I'm very blessed and proud to call you my nephew, and our family is a better one with you in it. Stay strong and true to your beliefs...they will carry you through these very uncertain and stressful times. Love you. Aunt Sandi
ReplyDeleteOh what a wonderful surprise, Aunt Sandi!!! Thank you so much for reading my innerview! Your kind words are so appreciated, and I am beyond humbled to be your nephew. Your encouragement has helped me to get through some horrible times, especially at Nana's funeral. I love you also and thanks again for your kind and humbling encouragement.
DeleteMy dear, precious sister! You will never know what your encouragement to Zach means to me. He loves you so dearly, and so do, I. Praying for you often and will be talking to you soon, Lord willing. Love you so much!
DeleteDear Zach, I have had the utmost pleasure getting to *know* you through your mother. I have often commented to her that I truly believe God has *big plans* for your future. You have wisdom and insight beyond your years, and your heart for the Lord is a beautiful thing. I have no doubt that the ministry is in your future - whether in a formal pulpit, or in some other way that God opens for you. It is particularly precious to hear from a teenager who is so dedicated and devoted to following our Lord. Nowadays, it seems like so many young people are deciding that God just isn't *relevant* to their lives. The lure of the world is strong, and sometimes other people get in the way of seeing Jesus. I pray for a revival in our young people - that they will come to understand that Jesus is the most relevant person who ever lived. I know that you, Zach, are going to be instrumental in spreading the very Good News of who Jesus is, what He's all about - and many lives are going to be touched and changed by your witness and testimony. May the Holy Spirit be strong in you!!
ReplyDeleteLoved this that you said: "And remember, the work is hard, but the retirement and benefits are out of this world." So true, and so clever!!
Blessings and love to you, Zach, and your dear mom and dad. You are never far from my thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS!
My dear friend! You will never know how much I appreciate your precious presence in our lives, your support and encouragement, and your sweet friendship. God bless you again and again! Sending you much love and gratitude!
DeleteI am truly humbled, Mrs. Sharon. You have truly touched my inmost soul today! Thank you so much for your encouragement and insight! Please know that you will be in my prayers (God's Willing.) God bless you abundantly!
DeleteFather God, I praise you for the godly young man I see in Zach. His passion and love for you are abundantly evident. Please help him to clearly hear your voice and follow your path for him. Renew in him a right spirit, and create and recreate in him a clean heart as often as needed. Protect him and his bride-to-be. Prepare her to be a perfect fit for Zach, and prepare them both to love and serve you with their whole hearts. I ask it all in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
ReplyDeleteBless you Zach! I do hope my teen daughters find husbands who are as committed to Christ and family as you are.
Mrs. Laura Lane
Carthage, Missouri
And, bless you, dear, sweet friend! I SO appreciate your precious words for Zach!! Love and appreciate you so very much. :)
DeleteOh, I can never thank you enough for that beautiful prayer, Mrs. Laura! I feel so unworthy. May God Bless you and your family abundantly!
DeleteThis makes me smile! What a wonderful young man! I have a 14-year-old daughter also swimming against the current and it can be so hard sometimes. And congrats to you guys for raising him in a warm, Christian home where he was able to learn about the Lord!
ReplyDeleteOh, bless your daughter's heart! I do trust Jesus to keep her on the right track and encouraged in Him! It was so nice to read your dear encouragement, and I can't thank you enough for stopping by. Sending you many blessings!
DeleteThank you so much for your encouragement! I certainly am not wonderful, only Jesus within me! May God Bless your daughter as she fights the honorable battle that every teen has fought down through the ages! God Bless you and your family!
DeleteWow! I am in awe after reading this! Cheryl, I always known that your precious Zachary was a special child, now young man, but special doesn't begin to describe what a wonderful gift you have been given! His testimony is amazing! Such Godly words of wisdom! You & Kevin should be so proud & I know you are! I love all of you so much & miss you!
ReplyDeleteDear, precious friend of so many years! I was SO thankful and happy to see your sweet comments for dear Zach. They just meant the world to him and to me, too. I miss you so much and wish we could somehow connect for a face to face visit. Please tell David hi for us and give your sweet mom and dad a big hug from me. Love you so much!
DeleteOh, it is such a blessing to hear from you, Mrs. Wanda!!! I am in no wise worthy of the overwhelmingly kind comment you left. All praise be to the Dear Lord! Thank you so much! I so wish that we could see you all! Hopefully, God will grant us a chance soon! Love you all so much!
DeleteDear Zach and Cheryl, I was so impressed by the words here, and the obvious faith in action that Zach is trying to be. Believe me, the struggles are tough as an adolescent, but they will prepare you well for your life as an adult. The pressures are not lessened, but you will be that polished arrow that God needs you to be.
ReplyDeleteI am also so happy to hear the love that you have for your life Zach. That's rare! Realizing that God has created you for a reason, and that your parents love and cherish you is far beyond your years. God has blessed you with great grace, and you have taken that grace and used it for wisdom. May you continue to walk upright and strong on the road, moving closer and closer to him.
Cheryl, I can imagine your tears. I'd be bawling myself...
Ceil
Thank you, dear Ceil, for your precious encouragement for Zach! We so appreciate your visit and uplifting words. It is always a blessing when you stop by here. Sending you much love today!
DeleteOh my, your comment is such a blessing, Mrs. Ceil! Your wisdom and encouragement is so appreciated! May God greatly Bless you!
DeleteCheryl, we never understand God's timing or His direction in our path but He never fails with the perfect plan. Zach is an incredible young man, smart, handsome, and very wise. He was made perfect and righteous by our Saviour at the right time to inspire others in this darken world. It is a real struggle against society and "the norm." His character is virtuous and that is a result of your love and mothering. I hope my children will walk in the same light as Zach and know through Zach's witness that the only way is to be side by side with Jesus. You both are greatly blessed to have one another and the relationship you have. Zach, continue to be courageous and bold for the Lord. He has done a mighty work in your mother and will do great and mighty in your life. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou are so right. God's ways and thoughts are so far above ours, and even though we sometimes wonder why His timing is different from ours, He is always right and knows what we need when we need it the most. Thank you for your precious comments and compliments of dear Zach, and thank you for encouraging him. And, your dear words to me were just precious. Thank you, and may God richly bless you!
DeleteGoodness, I am just so humbled. I do not find myself in any way shape or form worthy of your kind comment. Thank you so much for your encouragement! God Bless you!
DeleteThanks for sharing your heart, Zach. May God bless you as you continue to shine for Him!
ReplyDeleteLindsay
Thank you for stopping by, Lindsay! Sending you love and gratitude, sweet friend. :)
DeleteThank you so much, Mrs. Lindsay! God Bless you and your family!
DeleteDear Cheryl, Reading your son's interview blessed my heart incredibly!! Well done Mama and Dad for your very evident obedience to the Lord in raising such a Godly son.
ReplyDeleteZach, thank you so much for opening your heart to us. You speak with wisdom beyond your years. Your honesty and humility are a breath of fresh air. Your words have blessed me beyond measure.
Oh how mightily the Lord is already using you for the Kingdom of God. May He bless you abundantly as you continue to serve in Kingdom work for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Thank you, sweet friend. You will never know how much we appreciate your kindness and love to us. You are such a dear blessing to our lives. Sending you much love!
DeleteWhat a blessing I have received from your kind comment, Mrs. Karen! I feel so unworthy. God Bless you abundantly!
DeleteCheryl, I so enjoyed reading Zach's interview. You and your husband are raising such a fine young man. I pray that God continues to direct his path.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Wanda. Your consistent encouragement is such a dear blessing to me. Sending you much love, sweet friend. :)
DeleteThank you from the bottom of my heart, Ms. Wanda! Thank you so much for your prayers! God Bless you!
DeleteZach thank you for your inspiring words, thank you for your great love for Jesus & that your desire in life is to serve Him, seek Him, & live full out for Him!! I will continue to pray for you & your family as you continue to do His great work!!
ReplyDelete1Timothy 4:12- Don't let anyone look down on you b/c you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, & in purity.
Thank you so much, Missi! You will never know how much I appreciate your dear words of encouragement to dear Zach! Sending you much love and gratitude. God bless you abundantly!
DeleteOh my, I thank you so much for your encouragement, ma'am! God Bless you for your much appreciated prayers!
DeleteWhat a fantastic testimony and a fine young man! May God richly bless you and guide you into fruitful service for His kingdom. And may He raise up an army of young men with a similar heart for Him!
ReplyDeleteThank you SO much, Karen, for your dear, encouraging and kind words. They just meant so much, and I appreciate your visit from the bottom of my heart! God bless you!
DeleteThank you from the bottom of my heart! I feel so humbled by your kind words! God Bless you abundantly!
DeleteThat's awesome. How I wish I would have had his same perspective when I was 15. Keep on keeping in for the Lord, Zach! I believe HE has big things in store for you!
ReplyDeleteDear Bob, Thank you so very much for taking the time to stop by and read and leave such kind encouragement for us! We appreciate you and your ministry more than we can say. God bless you and your dear family!
DeleteOh, Mr. Bob, I am just so humbled by your words, and by the fact that you would take time out of your enormously busy schedule to read this. I'm unimaginably honored. Thank you SO much! God Bless you and the Kingsmen abundantly!
DeleteWhat a precious and inspiring testimony! How true, that God has an amazing and unique plan for each of His children. Thank you for sharing this uplifting interview with us.
ReplyDeleteThank you for commenting, Laurie. Your encouragement and sweet words mean so much to us. God bless you!
DeleteThank you so greatly for your encouragement, Mrs. Laurie! God Bless you abundantly!
DeleteI so much enjoyed your innerview with your amazing son Zach. God has great plans for this young man and I love his sweet attitude and readiness to share with you his inner thoughts. May the Holy Spirit bring him special God encounters as he yields to God's will in his life. Thank you for sharing with us here at Tell me a Story.
ReplyDeleteThank you ever so much, dear Hazel. Your encouragement truly means so much to me! Thank you for your prayers for Zach. We truly appreciate it. God bless you, sweet friend. ;)
DeleteI appreciate your encouragement SO much, ma'am! May God greatly bless you!
DeleteOooh wow, Cheryl! You have quite the son. He definitely sounds like a very well-educated and remarkably thoughtful teenager!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Bethany, for your kind words of encouragement. To GOD be all glory. I appreciate you and your visits here. :)
DeleteThank you so much! I am certainly not worthy of anything you said, only Jesus within me. God Bless you abundantly!
DeleteCheryl, it was such blessing to read such an honest and also Christ honoring interview from a Christian teen age boy. May God grant the desire of Zach's heart that he may keep looking unto Jesus (Heb. 12) as he grows in grace and his knowledge of Him, and may you and your husband have wisdom in helping him in that.
ReplyDeleteZach, I know that you all have been through some tough things in recent times. I know what it is like to go through difficult trials as a teen. As an adult some of those old scars still have a live nerve here and there that twinges sometimes with the old pains and hurt. But, despite the ugliness of some of those things, there were many lessons that I carried away from those trials that have been important tools to me throughout life. My encouragement to you is to focus on recognizing the tools - the skills and knowledge - that you gained and are gaining from those experiences so that you may carry them forward in your life and use them for the glory of God. Nothing is wasted with the Lord. He can and will show you how to use even the horrible things for some good in some way in His time - if you let Him. Rom. 8:28, 2 Cor. 1:3-5
Thank you so much, dear friend! I SO appreciate your kind remarks, and may the dear Lord just abundantly bless you for your prayers and words of encouragement!
DeleteDear Zach,
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful blessing it was to read your testimony! I have been wanting to take time to read it for awhile now, and I am truly thankful that I did! Your words encouraged my heart in numerous ways...what a JOY it is to know you are seeking the Lord with all your heart, all your mind and all your soul! Praise be to His glorious name! I continue to pray for you, that you would draw nearer to Jesus and that He would reveal His plan for your life to you in time... Thank you for standing up for the Lord Jesus Christ in this wicked and perverse generation...may He bless you as you seek to lead a righteous life! And I just love what you said... "Doing His Will fulfills me completely." Oh, that more people would find true satisfaction, peace and contentment in doing the will of God! Keeping walking with the Lord, Zach!
Dear Cheryl,
Thank you for sharing this amazingly encouraging, challenging and uplifting interview... Both my mom and I were so very blessed through reading Zach's testimony... To think that you waited so long for him...that medical professionals declared it impossible... Oh, but with our Lord ALL things are possible and Zach is living proof! Praise be to God's glorious name!
With much love and blessings to you, Cheryl!
Kelly-Anne
Amen, and amen, sweet friend! There is nothing too hard for our God! For so many years, it looked so impossible, but, as you said, with our Lord ALL things are possible! Oh, God is so good. I cannot thank you enough for your precious visit and kind words both to Zach and to me. You are a precious encouragement in our lives, and we appreciate you and your walk with Jesus so much. Please thank your dear Mom for reading Zach's interview, and send her my love. God be with you and bless you in a special way, dear Kelly-Anne! Sending you much love and many blessings!!
DeleteAs I read this precious testimony, the verse that came to mind is Psalm 57:7 "My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise." Also Psalm 108:1 "O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory."
ReplyDeleteI hear these verses in the testimony and I am thankful. I love those verses and the idea of having my heart "fixed" on God and His Word. Trying times will come, leanness of soul can come, but with your heart "fixed" on God, you will get through such times.
Thank you for your commitment to God. I pray that never changes. He is worthy and He has a plan for your life. Starting out on a stable foundation of God's Word and trusting Him will allow God to continue to build on that foundation.
Thank you for this glimpse into your heart with both its strengths and weaknesses. It is amazing how many times God will take a weakness and turn it into a strength to be used by Him. May God bless you and your family. I pray for all of you often. :)