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This is the latest of the articles Pastor Richert writes for the monthly church newsletter.
1 Corinthians 13 for Parents
If I speak the truisms of generations of parents, but do not have love for my children, I am but a nag or a screamer.
If I know all the mysteries of parents, and have all the knowledge of Dr. Spock and Dr. Dobson combined, and have the faith that these techniques cannot fail, but I do not love my children, I am a parental failure.
If I give myself sacrificially, giving all my time and all my money, and become a parental martyr, but do not have love for my children through it all, it all adds up to a total loss.
Loving my children means being patient to let God work in their lives, being sensitive to their feelings, and aware of their future hurts and concerns.
Loving my children means not comparing them to me or any other, not being envious for their success, not trying to protect my reputation by governing their activities.
Love for my children is not irritable, agitated or moody. It does not hold grudges and refuse to forgive. It does not expect them to be perfect or rejoice in punishment, but rejoices when they learn to walk with God.
The love of a parent is not condescending, does not demand conformity to projected expectations, is willing to admit personal failure, and is unconditional no matter what they do.
All the parenting theories will pass away.
All the lectures will blow in the wind.
All the tears and concerns will overcome.
What remains is my faith in God and my hope for my children, but the greatest asset of parenting is the love which only God can produce in my heart for my children.
— by Jim Fowler
