Parenting Skills


I've heard it said that good parenting often allows children to learn from their mistakes, RATHER than always trying to talk them out of making them.  Such is the case with the middle schooler who wants to wear shorts to school during the middle of winter.

Honestly, I don't know what is up with middle schoolers... but no coats, or shorts worn at the most inappropriate times (considering the weather) seems to be the norm.

But I heard a wise person once say - let them do it.  It won't take more than once for them to realize being warm is better than being "cool"...and if they're cold because of the choices they make, maybe next time they'll make different choices.

I think God is a VERY GOOD parent.

By giving us freedom of choice, God has allowed us to decide whether we want to do life WITH Him, or WITHOUT Him...and for those who choose WITHOUT, He often lets them experience the consequences of that choice.

But I KNOW from personal experience, that the moment we turn toward God, He comes running to meet us.  He isn't stand-offish with his hand outstretched saying, "Oh no - you rejected me, now I'm going to make you work for it."  Nope.  He's standing there at the ready - ready to take you in his arms, lift you high into the air, and love you unconditionally - just like a good Dad would.

I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to CHOOSE.  I am tickled that I chose God.  And now I am basking in the love of a Dad who I know cherishes and delights in me.  What fun!

My Dad is a good good Dad.

"But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." - Joshua 24:15

"Come near to God, and he will come near to you." - James 4:8a


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