Parenting--I thought I had the Answers

The photos are abundant when it comes to searching for happy families.  The majority of those photos show families dressed perfectly, laughing, having fun, and doing life together--not a problem nor a heartache in the world.  There appears to be nothing absent that these families do not have.  The reality is that all families struggle and most parents would acknowledge that their own homes were somewhat dysfunctional when growing up.  Thousands of books have been written (and continue to be written) on parenting from different angles and perspectives.  Many books leave us feeling very incompetent and questioning whether or not we have what it takes to raise healthy children.  Some books even leave us feeling that it is too late to make any real difference as our children have aged--I don't believe this.

The truth is that none of us will ever be fully prepared, ready, or have all the answers to raise children.  Child rearing that is biblical sees a child as a gift from God to their parents.  The responsibility of parents is to invest into their children so that they may live responsibly unto the Lord.  Does this mean teaching them to learn to be responsible to pay their bills?  Of course.  It also means teaching our children how to interact with and honor others, and how to keep their word even when it is not easy or convenient.  Parenting never ends but the relationship certainly changes.  Children (of all ages) are told to "honor" their parents all through Scripture, but they are not told to always obey their parents.  There is a time when decision making is passed along to our children, although they may still consult us as they choose to honor us.

One of the greatest opportunities for parents is to continue to disciple their children by praying and encouraging them in the ways of the Lord.  At times, we may feel that we have lost the window of opportunity to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Eph. 6:4); however, I have watched wise, godly parents over and over again impact their children for Christ because they are faithful in their walk before God.  I have witnessed adult children returning to walk in God's ways after years of personal rejection of His authority in their lives.  Most parents have been inconsistent over the years in their own lives and have failed to demonstrate Christ-likeness before their children.  It is not over nor is it too late!!!  Our children still want to hear from us, but the way we go about is not the same as when they were living under our care.  They want to see our faith lived out.

Just when we think we begin to understand this parenting thing and have the right answers--it is time for our children to leave the nest.  So what now?  Write a book or post a blog?  Mentor or tutor other young children--sounds great.  What about staying involved in our own children's lives even if it is in a limited capacity.  Our godly choices will continue to leave a legacy even if we don't have all of the answers.  If the truth be known, our kids really don't mind if don't have all of the answers as long as they know we love them and we want God's best for them.

Don't stop nurturing, instructing, and making disciples of your children--it's a lifelong journey.