Sorry, this blog is not going to give you any advice, solve your child's discipline issues or simplify your life as a parent. It is my reflection on the parenting advice I've recieved and often eagerly sought in the past five years since having children.

     I have come to the conclusion that (as in all things) to really get the best advice for raising children, you must first pray. Sounds simple, doesn't it? But in my zeal to do everything right, according to "biblical" principles I rushed out and read everything in print (O.K., not everything, but a lot) that touted itself Christian and for the purpose of raising Godly kids. I forgot to pray. I forgot that discernment comes from the Holy Spriit and that God gives freely to those who ask. I forgot to ask. The result? Turmoil. In many cases, the more I followed the advice, the worse my children behaved and the more stressed out I felt.

     I learned that my children don't need a formua or a program to learn, they need a relationship with their teacher (me). Although there are many older, wiser parents out there who can serve as encouragers, there is no shortcut to the wisdom that comes from God. God knows me, He knows my children. He knows my shortcomings and the purposes He has for our lives. I've learned that I still have much to learn and that it will take the rest of my life to learn it. I will not be perfect, I will make many mistakes. But if I walk beside Him and ask, I will be given all I need to complete this task He has graciously given me.