Noah Lehew: I Am So Proud of You

My dad passed away when I was 20.  

From the time of my 8th grade year, I saw too many times the walls of a hospital.  My dad tried to make it to the countless things I was involved in, but his health limited these opportunities.  The good thing was I had the opportunity to work alongside my dad, so we did get to spend time together.

My dad said over and over that he was always proud of me and I will never forget those words that he spoke over me.

Today, I speak those same words over my son, Noah.

I have tried to dismiss the fact that in a matter of a week and half, I will not see Noah for at least six months as he fulfills God's call on his life in The Gambia located in western Africa, but last night I could no longer hold it in.

I am so proud of you Noah.

• For the man of God you have become.
• For the initiative you have taken to make your faith your own.
• For helping us plant a church.
• For being willing to serve even when you didn't feel like it.
• For growing in your love for your siblings.
• For being respectful to your mom and I in this parenting journey.
• For the investment you have made in so many people through Foundation Church, Church Inside Out, and AweStar.
• For bailing me out so many times and coming to my aid to help other people.
• For your desire for the Gospel

Who knew that time would pass so quickly?  Who knew that I would struggle with you leaving--although I know you are being obedient to the Lord.  Who knew 18 years ago, you would become your own man under the leadership of the Holy Spirit and head to a Muslim land to share the Gospel to a broken and hurting people.

I am grateful for you Noah Lehew.  Thank you for being a great son.  Thank you for allowing me to coach you these past few years in life.  Thanks for letting me speak into your life even when it wasn't pleasant.

God is going to do more in a matter of 6 months than he does in most a lifetime.  You are going to witness the front lines of a battle for the souls of men, women, and children.  Prepare and protect your heart as you are going directly into the enemies territory.  It will be a  fight, but it is a fight worth fighting.  

(For those reading this, would you please, please, please commit to praying for Noah from June to December?)

It's an honor to be your dad.

I am so proud of you.

"Be strong and courageous.  Be carefult o obey all the instructions Moses gave to you.  Do not deviate from them, turning them either to the right or to the left.  Then you will be successful in everything you do.  Study this book of instruction continually.  Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it.  Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.  This is my command--be strong and courageous!  Do not be afraid or discouraged.  For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." 
​Joshua 1:7-9