Her mother had not spoken to her in two weeks. When she finally called, it was to find out what Haley knew about a shocking story: a family in their hometown had a daughter under house arrest. Mom wanted to know how that came to be.

What Haley knew had been told her in confidence.
So she replied, “I really don’t think that’s any of our business.”

Without another word, her mother hung up.

She just wanted to use Haley to add grist to the rumor mill.

What does this have to do with you and parenting your own children?

Ask yourself:

Would I rather gossip with my friends than have a relationship with my daughter?

Would I rather impress outsiders with my perfect house than share intimate moments with my children?

When they leave the nest, will my children WANT to come back to see me?

I am begging you, Parents, focus on your spouse and your children.
Take time to show interest in what they do, what they love, what they need.
If possible, do what they do. Do what they love. Do what they need.

Stop building a house.

Build your home.

Blessings on you,
Marilyn

whologwhy @ Flickr.com

My Dear Child,

I know your self-esteem has

taken a beating

and your troubles

seem overwhelming.

So I have something important

to tell you.





God has chosen you to be his heir:
not just one of his creatures, but his child:
and not just any child,
but one who inherits her father’s estate.
(Very rarely does a father divide his estate and
allow any but the first born son a part of it.)

He who chose you saved you by grace,
not because of anything you can do for him
but, just because that’s how much he loves you.

He is the same one who keeps you in your faith
and helps you grow,
even if doing so requires a period of distress;
even if doing so requires distresses many and varied.

He takes no pleasure in your pain.
But he looks forward to how much more
beautiful and joyful you will be
when the testing has scoured away
your doubts and fears.

He loves you – he knows how much you can take
and he’s proud that you keep on believing in him;
you keep going.

Should you get to the place where you cannot finish,
he will pick you up and carry you.

And get this!
Your perseverance is, in truth,
a beautiful grand-prize trophy
that you get to give to Jesus;
and everyone – especially he! –
will consider it a high honor to him!

Having trouble believing this?
Well, I didn’t make it up.

It’s in Peter’s first book, chapter one, verses 1- 9.

Blessings on you,

Marilyn