Remarkable Women Part 2

I've known Cora for as long as I can remember. When I was six-years-old, I was the flower girl at her wedding.   She was present at my baptism, my graduations, and my wedding. Over the years, I have relied on her for much wisdom in various areas of my life.  Cora is a woman whose faith rests solely on the Lord.  Despite the many trials she has faced over the years, her heart has grown in courage, strength, and deep beauty.

Here are some of the lessons I have learned from Cora:

Lessons on Marriage

• Make every anniversary special.  Plan an overnight trip even if it's just one night.  Make it a priority even when circumstances may make it seem difficult.  Mike and I have faithfully followed this advice with the exception of last year when I was on bed rest.  It was really hard to break away once the boys came along but we have made it a priority.  The practice of going away once a year has blessed our marriage immensely. 

• Honoring my husband means to trust his leadership in my life.  When I force my way, when I disrespect him, when I usurp his authority, I weaken him.  When I choose to trust him, when I  depend on him, when I respect him, he becomes a stronger man.  My children need a strong father, a man that I openly respect and admire.  When I honor my husband in faith, God will produce rich fruit in my marriage.  He will give me the desires of my heart. 

Lessons on Parenting

• Parent with faith and confidence.  Entrust your children to God and believe in the fruit He will grow in them through your parenting.  Our children receive blessing because of our faithfulness to God.  If I am faithful, they will benefit as a result.

• Pray, pray, pray for your children. 

It's difficult to capture most of what I have learned from Cora.  There is just too much.   She has listened and counseled me through some difficult times in my life.  Whenever I go back home to visit family, I usually call her up and schedule a "talk".  Even if I don't have something I need to talk to her about, it's just nice to hear what the Lord is doing in her life.  She's an amazing storyteller which makes her easy to listen to.  Cora is a remarkable woman in my eyes because of the way she has allowed God to transform her heart and mind.  She is always willing to share with others what God is working in her life. I thank God for placing her in my life path and for blessing me with her friendship.

I can't seem to find any pictures of her and I.  I know I have a few but can't seem to locate them :-(
Nevertheless, I will share these two lovely pictures because they capture the love she has for her kids so well.

As you go about your week, remember the women who have mentored you, prayed for you, and showed you the love of Christ.  Thank God for them.  If you don't have Godly women in your life, pray that God will send one your way.  They are a precious gift to a young woman's heart.

Blessings!