A Resource for Parenting

When we were young-er raising our children, one of the most useful resources I purchased was the book, Proverbs for Parenting.  This volume effectively groups the various proverbs into headings that are useful for study, for instruction of the children, and for help in sorting out fights, etc.  Now, I know your kids never fight, and neither do mine - well, I guess they do sometimes - but if they did (or when they do!), it’s always helpful to have a ready reference in dealing with the issues in a Scriptural manner.

Parenting from a Biblical perspective is much different than parenting from the seat of your pants.  God says, "My ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts are higher than your thoughts." (paraphrase) [Isaiah 55:9]

Jesus said that the least is truly the greatest, and the leader is to be the servant of all.

The way up is down…on our knees.  And the way down (destruction) is through lifting ourselves up (a haughty spirit).

Worldly philosophies and ideals cannot raise godly children.  If we are to change this world for Christ, we must do it through His Word, His Spirit, and His power.  It can be no other way.

My hats are off to those of you struggling with little runny noses, soggy Pampers, and endless loads of laundry.  I’ve been there.  I know how hard it is.  You have chosen to sacrifice yourself, your time, your freedom, your energy, and your life to pour out into vessels of moldable clay.  As you do your duty as unto the Lord, He will fill your cup, lighten your step, and give that sweet peace of knowing that you are not throwing your energy to the wind – you are sowing foreternity.  Inasmuch as you follow God and do things His Way, you can be assured of His blessings.

Age Has Its Advantages!

Ever feel old? I know I’m only forty--not-going-to-tell-you years old, but sometime I feel as if age is catching up with me. Actually, not sometimes…more often than not! Sometimes it's hard to believe that I actually have three adult children and two grandchildren! All of my family are the joy of my heart. 

Being older (notice I said oldER) means that I have many years to reflect on. The formative year of my family were highly influenced by many good books, and I thank God for them!

 

photo source

When I began my family twenty-five years ago, one of the most influential books I ever read – even to this time – is What the Bible Says About Child Training, by J. Richard Fugate. (Of course, when I got a hold of it, it was the older version, and a new edition has since been published. Looking at it online, however, it appears as though the newer version does not have any additions to it.)

The book is full of foundational principles for young families, and also some good advice for parents with older children. The Scriptural principles laid out in this book are indisputable, and are Biblically sound. It was very helpful then, and it is just as helpful today.

One of the principles that has helped me over the years which is explained fully in the book is what I call the Crossover Principle. It is the time in a child’s life when the power of the parent is no longer that of control, but that of influence. When they are young, we need to control them, but as they get older, the need for our control lessens. They are more able to operate on their own. But as they get older, their need for developing a good relationship with us -- and thereby increasing our scope of our influence in their lives -- increases. This principle alone has spurred me to try to develop good relationships with my children. Now, as my children call me from their homes in other states, they seek my approval and advice. What a good feeling to know that they care!

So, I can say that age has its advantages! With many years of memories behind me, I see the importance of foundational truths when we are young. Then when we are grannies, we can enjoy the blessings! And oh, how wonderful those little blessings are!! :)