From 0-18 in a Flash!

In just a few months my youngest child will be turning 18 and graduating from high school. As we took the time yesterday to get senior pictures done I realized it was another memory made but it was also another event that showed the passage of time and how quickly it has gone by.

I can still remember the day that my son was born. It was Easter Sunday and he arrived on the scene around 1:00 p.m. He was a tiny little bundle that brought joy into our lives. Raising a child comes with its ups and downs, joys and challenges but I am so thankful that God allowed us the blessing of raising two children.

Psalm 127:3-5

"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate."

There have been plenty of lessons that we have learned and there have been times that we have made mistakes and had to ask for forgiveness. But God has always been there, leading and directing. As I look back on it all if someone were to ask me what I would share to help new parents I would have to say...Take one day at a time. Enjoy every single moment for time goes by so quickly. Teach them about God and His love for us from the time they are born so that they can come to a saving knowledge of Christ at a young age and live a full life for Christ avoiding a lot of mistakes.

Deuteronomy 6:7

"You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

Always tell them the truth and be willing to ask for forgiveness if you are wrong. It opens communication and lets them know you are human. Show them that trust must be earned and then it must be kept.

But most of all, LOVE them!! Love on them-hug and kiss and spend time with them-there aren't any substitutes for you! 

Proverbs 22:6

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

3 John 1:4

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."