2021 Daily Devotion - Day 315

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Dear Dad,
$chool i$ really great. I am making lot$ of friend$ and $tudying very hard. With all my $tuff, I $imply can't think of anything I need, $o if you would like, you can ju$t $end me a card, a$ I would love to hear from you.
Love,
Your $on

The Reply:

Dear Son,
I kNOw that astroNOmy, ecoNOmics, and oceaNOgraphy are eNOugh to keep even an hoNOr student busy. Do NOt forget that the pursuit of kNOwledge is a NOble task, and you can never study eNOugh.
Dad


Good for you, Dad (and Mom – I am sure you had something to do with this, too). You resisted your son's NOt-so-subtle hint that throwing a little money his way would make you the greatest parents ever.

What he really needs is your time, your attention, your wisdom, and your guidance. He needs your spiritual leadership. Don't be afraid to say "No". Resist the temptation to replace parenting with finances. Giving children boundaries is one of the greatest gifts you can give to them.

Proverbs 4:1-5
"Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. For I too was a son to my father, still tender, and cherished by my mother. Then he taught me, and he said to me, 'Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live. Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them.'"

Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, it is sometimes difficult to be a parent. Too often, we are led by our emotions. However, sometimes saying “no” and having boundaries is the most loving thing we can do for our children. Help us to be the kind of parents who make it possible for our children to thrive and succeed. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Yours because of Him,
Pastor John R. Steward
Senior Pastor
Mount of Olives Church

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