Graduation?!

This is not the time of year you see a lot about graduation.

After all, school is about to start not finish.

Well, I have never followed the rules very well.

I have a daughter that is entering her senior year of high school. So I have a lot to look forward to. I have already had one finish high school and go off to college, but it is different this time. You see this is my baby. The last one. WOW!!

Now my mind is reeling. Have I done what I should have done in raising my children? Have I honored God with my parenting? Have I taught my girls the important things in life? Have I modeled what a husband should be?

I must say that in all of those topics above that I have failed miserably at one time or another. I pray that I have been successful at one time or another as well. It is hard being a parent. It has been said that parenting is not for the faint of heart. AMEN! There have been days that my wife and I both have cried for not knowing what to do. Parenting is hard and scary. As your children grow up, they seem to need you less. In a way that is a good thing. But, what if you haven't taught them well? Then what?

I have one answer. Pray.  We should be praying for our children and their future even before they are born, but in a time of crisis or need...Pray.  When you are trying to lead your child in any manner...Pray. God has told us in His Word in Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." He also tells us in  Ephesians 6:4 "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."

God wants us to succeed as parents. He wants us to lead our children to Him. The only way I know to begin that process is to pray for His guidance and leadership. Yet I digress.

Children grow up. You have but one chance to do certain things.

1. Be there. (Leave the office early to make that game or recital.)
2. Play with them. (I can still hold my own around a Barbie doll. Get in the floor!)
3. Teach them. (Show them how to tie a shoe, hammer a nail, change a tire, pray, sing in church.)
4. Lead by example. (Do what you say. Open the door for your wife. Hold hands. Smile.)

 I am so proud of my girls! They are wonderful young ladies. Are they perfect? Absolutely not, but I sure do love them.

 

We are almost "empty nesters". 

 

I hope my children take care of me when I'm old!