Yesterday morning I spoke with Christine, our older daughter. She and her husband, Phillip, are about to have their first baby.
She has been reading a number of books on babies, child-rearing, parenting, etc. She referred to several of them in the conversation. Finally at one point, she said, “Do you know the one book that has meant more to me than any other? The book that has meant so much is Sacred Parenting by Gary Thomas.”
She went on to say that this book spoke so clearly about the purpose of parenting. She said, “Having a child is important and special but life with God is even bigger than this. Life is first about our relationship with God.”
You might these thoughts regarding Sacred Parenting from Gary’s website:
Parenting is a school for spiritual formation—and our children are our teachers. Instead of discussing how parents can change their kids, Gary Thomas turns the tables and demonstrates how God uses our kids to change us. You’ll be encouraged by stories that tell how other parents handled the challenges and difficulties of raising a godly family. Grow closer to Christ and your children as you learn to:
- Freely enjoy your kids for who they are.
- Build a closer, grace-based family.
- Reduce the pressure felt for your kids to turn out perfect.
- Manage anger and negative responses towards your child’s behavior.
- Increase your sense of worth and respect as a parent.
You might also enjoy watching some of Gary’s videos as he answers questions and discusses issues related to parenting.
These include the following:
“What is the most effective way for parents to influence their children?”
Very interesting, Jim. Thanks for sharing. I might pick this up even though my baby is not a baby anymore, seeing as how she is in the 10th grade.
Gayle, this is a very good book for anyone who has a child, regardless of the age. I did not read this until mine were in high school. Hope you are doing well.