(One of my most favorite “daughters” asked for parenting advice based on Verse. Here’s what I replied to her in a PM on Facebook. I did not check spelling or grammar, which is a whole other blog of advice. Anyway, I think it’s pretty good advice, so I thought I would share it here too.)

Otto Von Bismarck said, “Only a fool learns from his own mistakes. The wise man learns from the mistakes of others.”

Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of the fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.” 

For as long as I can remember, I’ve shared that quote and verse with our kids in the hopes that they would understand that my testimonies are not for entertainment, but rather to help them make wise decisions. So far, so good!! Kennedy knows this well and will quickly quote it!

Too many parents hide their pasts because they are afraid that their kids will say, “you did it, so why can’t I”, and some kids will. As a matter of fact, YOU once told me that!! But, I believe that if we are truthful about the consequences, we can spare our kids a lot of misery. Some of those consequences have life long effects!

As you know, I am very honest about my past with my kids (and you). Sure, there are one or two things that I will forever keep private, but that’s only because it offers no benefit to them. There are a couple things I’ve shared with you and no one else. Once again, I weighed the benefits.

I guess what I’m saying is that I’ve learned that being honest about my mistakes and their consequences and sharing those with my kids is one of my greatest assets as a parent. Well, that and the fact they each know that I would kill or die for them!!

It’s also so very important to love them unconditionally. They are going to make lots of their own mistakes and poor choices.

But isn’t that what the Bible teaches over and over again?? As God’s children, we all fall short. But God still loves us. He’s the perfect example. Tough, yet loving.

Don’t get me wrong, sharing the Gospel is much more important, but in the long run, that choice is ultimately theirs. They’ve (mine) all confessed Jesus as Lord and have been baptized. Their choices, not ours. But even now, I’m able to be honest about being “saved” and still stupid sometimes.

Oh, and teach them to think for themselves!!! Hollywood, politicians, and the media are liars. They feed off our weaknesses and insecurities. Teach them who Christ says they are. They still get to choose what they believe, but at least they will make that choice based on truth and not lies.

Last thing….for now….”For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” John 3:17. Sometimes we lose sight of why Jesus came. As parents, we must also remember that our purpose is to give our kids life and love, not condemnation.

I love you!!!!!!!!!!