I posted this on my blog and hope it is a thought provoking post. I realize from the comments I got there that there are numerous scenarios and circumstances which  make our upbringings and our own raising of families different. I have left the post as it was, but wanted to acknowledge, as was discussed in those comments, that no matter what mistakes are made GOD can and does change heart and lives.

This is only my thoughts on this one quote which I think is true for us as we raise children for the Lord.

Roots and Wings

“Good parents give their children Roots and Wimg”

Roots, to be firmly established and grounded in love. and wings to fly and reach heights beyond your expectations.

Psalm 1 tells us that the man is blessed who does not walk in the council of the ungodly, nor stands with sinners nor sits in the seat of the scornful. But rather delights in and meditates on the law of the Lord.

3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

The roots of a strong faith, a loving family, parents committed to one another,
enable a child to grow into a grounded and confident adult. To dare to dream dreams and know that the home team is cheering. Always supporting and encouraging. This child reaches for goals that we as parents may have never dreamed of.
WingsSee how the Eagle soars! Such grace, such freedom, such confidence! He has trust in his abilities, his skill and he knows he has a firm and protected base to return to. He dares to soar out beyond the line of vision and try new pastures.

As parents, though we have invested many years, many tears, many prayers into the raising of our children, our job is not done until we have rooted and grounded them firmly enough to let them go. They are going to make mistakes, they are going to make decisions we do not agree with. They know what we believe on things. that our life and faith is grounded in the Word of God, yet they will at times make contrary choices. But if they know that we are behind them, upholding them in prayer, loving them, then they will spread their wings and fly!

Ah, there are reams that could be written about the does and don’ts of child rearing. From catechising to spanking, not supporting our children in sinful lifestyles, not holding on, not letting go,….. but just for now think of

Roots and Wings!
Sorry the formatting changed a ittle in transit!