I wanted to share our "Baby Dedication" we read for Gracelyn the day we found out she was a girl (19 weeks). The reason I wanted to do it was because I had been reading through the story of Hannah & how she dedicated her child (son) before she was even pregnant. I had done this too back in January, but wanted to do an "official" one since we are pretty sure of the gender now. I found some different online resources that helped me put it together & Vince and I prayed over her. I hope this is an encouragement to other parents to give their children to the Lord since they belong to Him in the first place. We are only temporary care takers who raise them to love Him. :)
Our Dedication of Gracelyn Raye Carbone
By Vincent and Stephanie Carbone
Gracelyn Raye is a gift to us from our Heavenly Father. Before the thought of a little girl entered our minds, the Lord had already determined that we would be blessed with her this year. Scripture commands us as parents to teach our child about the Lord Jesus Christ. Only then will Gracelyn be adequately equipped for the challenges of life. It is the words of our mouths combined with the obvious Presence of the Holy Spirit in our own lives that will effectively communicate the message of God’s love and saving power to Gracelyn. We promise to do our best in this area with God’s gracious help. The birth of our daughter needs to inspire within both of us a greater resolve to let Christ shine through us by being even more intentional in our pursuit of holiness and the supremacy of God in our home.
Scripture Reading & prayer for our Gracelyn Raye - Proverbs 3:1-18
Our daughter, never forget the things we’ve taught you. If you want a long and satisfying life, closely follow our instructions. Never forget to be truthful and kind. Hold these virtues tightly. Write them deep within your heart. If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don't ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success.
Don't be conceited, sure of your own wisdom. Instead, trust and reverence the Lord, then you will be given renewed health and vitality.
Honor the Lord by giving him the first part of all your income, and he will fill your barns with wheat and barley and overflow your wine vats with the finest wines.
Young lady, do not resent it when God chastens and corrects you, for his punishment is proof of his love. Just as a father punishes a son he delights in to make him better, so the Lord corrects you.
The one who knows right from wrong and has good judgment and common sense is happier than one who is immensely rich! For such wisdom is far more valuable than precious jewels. Nothing else compares with it. Wisdom gives: a long, good life, riches, honor, pleasure, peace. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who eat her fruit; happy is the one who keeps on eating it.
