InstagramDerick Dillard has penned a touching letter to his and wife Jill Duggar's 1-week-old baby boy Israel.
Citing the Bible verse Isaiah 44:21-28, the new dad wrote on his blog the other day, "I read these verses in my time with the Lord this morning, and I wanted to pen them specifically for you. Just as the Lord spoke of the nation of Israel, I pray He would accomplish in you. I pray that you, Israel, whom I already love more than anybody, except mom of course J, would turn to the Lord early in your life and glorify Him with all that is within you."
Dillard goes on, "Though we are still waiting on your physical birth, I want you to know that mom and I are already praying for your spiritual birth. The world has not met you yet, but the Lord our God already knows everything about you and who you will be. After all, He is forming you as we speak! How awesome is our God, the God of Israel! None shall prevail against Him!"
The 19 Kids and Counting star also reflected on the last nine month's of Duggar's pregnancy, "It is so neat to have felt you kicking, punching, and turning inside of mom for months now. Even if it doesn't always feel the best for mom, I know the joy you bring makes it up for her," he continued.
"I pray that you will continue to grow, in stature, in knowledge, and in wisdom, true wisdom, that is from the Lord," Dillard concluded. "And know that I love you son and I always will, no matter what. I will say it again… I love you Israel! -Your daddy."
Baby Israel was born on Apr. 6 via C-section after a grueling 70-hour labor.