Parenting 101

People have said since the beginning of time that "kids don't come with instruction books". For most, that's a true statement. However, if you're willing to read it, the Bible offers as much instruction as you will ever need.

Unfortunately, for most of us, we haven't taken the time to familiarize ourselves with what's in the book and so we continue to struggle through each day while hoping for the best. Such is the case with me, I have read the Bible for years and can quote chapter and verse for a long list of subjects but parenting isn't one of them. My oldest son was always a "mature" child, a "parent's dream", etc... So I made the mistake of skipping some of the most pertinent sections of the book.

God commands us to "train up" our children and so I am now in the dubious position of having to cram for the final exam. My son keeps me on my toes as he is transitioning into manhood but I wouldn't have it any other way. The growth I obtain in trying to keep up is well worth the effort. My son is a fine young man and will make a wonderful husband and father someday. I can only pray that I've done my job in "training him in the way he should go" so when he is old(er), he will be much more the man than I am. I pray that my other sons should turn out as well.

We're no different from any other "normal" family. BTW, what's "normal" these days? My wife always says that we aren't "normal" but that we have "abnormal" friends. We have our ups and downs BUT we know at the end of the day that there is nothing that we wouldn't do for each other. We LOVE each other! We are family! I love my sons and I thank GOD that he is watching over them all because sometimes... I just can't do it.

Thank you Lord for the instruction manual but remember that I'm a man and don't always read the instructions! Thanks for your gentle guidance, your patience, and your unending mercy and grace!

Here's to the next generation of Godly young men and women! I am excited for the future!