Father, lead me

A song that I listen to over and over again is "Lead Me," by Sanctus Real. The entire song is actually directed at men, challenging them to be the husbands and fathers that God has created them to be. But each time I listen to the song, my heart breaks. The song speaks of leading children, and how we can't lead them without first being led by our Heavenly Father. I try so often to do things on my own, and oh, how I repeatedly fail.

I have these pictures around our house, and like a moth to a flame I am drawn to them. 

 

I know in most families there are "daddy's girl" and "mama's boy" - but not in the Castleberry Clan. In our house, we have a Mama's girl and a Daddy's boy.

These pictures serve as a daily reminder that I have two beautiful eyes looking up to me, watching my every move, learning, becoming. I am afraid that I don't always portray what I want her to see (impatience, frustration, quick temper). I am thankful that not only are God's mercies new each morning, but Ella Beth's are as well. I want to give her the best of my life - not the leftovers when I'm too busy wasting time on the computer or on my "cool" phone. I don't want to leave her hungry for love when I can choose to give up everything else.

Father, help me to daily make the choice to put her first, before myself. Father, lead me that I may be a better example of Your love for my daughter. Give me the discernment to focus on what truly matters in this life, and give me the courage to leave everything else behind. Ella Beth is a precious gift that you have put under my care. Help me not fail her. I pray that You shine through me so that she can see how deeply she is loved.

So, Father, give me the strength to be everything I'm called to be.
Oh, Father, show me the way to lead them.
Won't you lead me?

To lead them with strong hands, 
To stand up when they can't
Don't wanna leave them hungry for love -
chasin' things that I could give up.

I'll show them I'm willin' to fight,
and give them the best of my life
so we can call this a home.

Lead me 'cause I can't do this alone.
Father, lead me 'cause I can't do this alone.