Heritage building

Reaching their hearts. A quick checkup from time to time. Yup, you're good to go. If it was only as simple as this. If it was only as simple as this.

This year Simon and I have been walking through what we've considered to be our biggest parenting challenge to date- being purposeful in passing on a Godly legacy to our children. It has required so much more than we could have ever thought, but at every corner God has placed amazing people and resources in our path to lead us. So now it's time to share.

This has not been about raising good little Christian children and that "God is great, God is good". This is not about how much scripture they memorize. It is not about obedience on the outside. It does, however, have everything to do with reaching their hearts and pointing them to the One who is their constant hope, help and provider.

We take seriously the call to train them in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6) and we firmly believe the only way to do that is to talk about them [the ways of the Lord] when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up (Deuteronomy 6:7).

It has so very little to do with attending church on Sunday, involving them in every VBS that comes our way, saying a quick grace before mealtimes. It's digging in, guys. A daily walk. Falling down, getting up. Finding that it's not sink or swim, rather a little of both. It won't always look pretty and no where near perfect. There will be days, heck- even weeks, when you will fail. I have. But it's that willingness to give up control and walk through life with the very children God placed in your family that will keep you humble and real in your walk.

Here's a quick fact sheet that sums up the VITAL role that parents play in their children's spiritual formation. I've also linked you to some of the books (at the right- first three books) that have helped guide us. Okay, here's my one disclaimer: these books are all great, but honestly, pick up God's word- The Holy Bible- that will encourage you and set you in the right direction more than any of these put together.

Enjoy!