Training children

One of the hardest callings for those of us with children, is the command to train them up in the Lord. As a lot of you know, I am DEEP in the training of a certain two year old. He is almost 2 1/2, and I am hoping that it will get a little easier as he approaches 3 years old.

I have realized that many aspects of my life reflect our culture and not God's plan for our lives. For example, I was more interested in offending others or distracting others in church than training my child. I used to think that teen agers just had to go through a bad attitude, rebelious period. I thought it was part of growing up! I have learned that teenagers can be some of the most wonderful people to be around and to get to know. I have been afraid to be firm enough with my children because our culture teaches happiness and protecting self esteem at all costs. I have learned that when a child has been properly trained, he/she has a great self esteem and has the freedom to be truly happy. I have seen children who are respectful to all people no matter what age, who are helpful, and who know how to obey their parents. Some may think that something shady must be happening, and that these kids must have fear in them. I am here to say that couldn't be farther from the truth. These kids have loving parents and happy homes. The difference is that their parents were consistent and stuck to their guns even when it got hard for them personally, or heaven forbid, embarrasing. I applaud you whom I am speaking of and thank you for your mentorship, love, and patience.