Parenting with a Purpose

I recently read an excellent article in my favorite magazine, Above Rubies*.  Nancy Campbell urges parents not to settle when it comes to raising children.  Many of us just try to survive the teen years, believing that we are victorious if we manage to produce children who have escaped the dangers of the world.

Is that really good enough?  Shouldn't we instead be striving to raise children who reveal the love of God to the world - who shine light into the darkness?  If we train our children to go on the offensive, we won't be cowering defensively hoping to avoid a catastrophe.
So, exactly HOW do we accomplish this?

• Through fervent prayer for the hearts and minds of our children to be turned to God.  
• Fill your home with God's word - read it aloud, display favorite verses, practice memorizing Scripture together, listen to Scripture-based music . . . there is no such thing as too much truth! (John 8:31-32, 2 Tim. 3:14-17)
• Surrounding our children with a community of families who are training up a generation of strong, well-grounded young people.  Get away from compromise!  (1 Cor. 10:14; 1 Thess. 5:22)
• Modeling a faith-driven life for our children and involving them in hospitality, service and decision-making.

Don't be afraid to make tough decisions that your children may not initially appreciate: what kind of media enters your home, who your children can hang out with, how you will celebrate holidays, etc.  The reward for the way you train your children is priceless!  It will affect the quality of their lives, their friends and neighbors, your grandchildren, and the world!  

We CAN raise up children who will have an impact on the world!

*Subscriptions to Above Rubies are FREE!  I highly encourage you to subscribe today!