I would like to talk to you today about being
a parent. Not how to be parents. Not how to
be good parents. Just being parents. Nearly
all of us will fill that role sooner or later in
life. Now that my own children are grown,
I would like to share things I wish I had
done differently.
First, I wish I had gathered more memories.
A good camera does not cost much, but
precious memories are lost forever without
pictures. Tomorrows are soon gone and so
are little children. Another regret I have is
that I allowed our teenagers to receive
telephone calls during meal-time.
Secondly, pray together as a family. I am
no longer surprised when I ask parents if
they pray together, and they answer, “Only
at mealtime.” If this is the only time that
you can get together, hold hands around
the table, each praying for a need. You will
surprised at how quickly the Holy Spirit will
melt problems and hearts in these few
moments together.
Thirdly, love your children openly. I saw
a bumper sticker “Have you hugged your
child today?”
Lastly, so much can be accomplished by a
husband and wife who pray together over
problems. With Christ Jesus as the center
of the family, we can have the best that God
intended for us.
Father, grant us grace and opportunities to
be good parents today.
Amen.
And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 KJV
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 KJV
