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“Mother may I?” Yes, you may. It may be giant steps, baby steps, scissor steps, backward steps, or running steps. Remember that game? Remember the sneaking steps we took, trying to get ahead of others?

Well when you become a mom, you have baby steps, middle school steps, teen steps, and  married steps of your older children. Through all the stages, your children watch your reactions as mom. Oh, how we need God’s guidance and His wisdom in raising our children. First of all, to love God and then have a personal relationship with Him.

Our It’s 4 uMom groups have a new theme this fall and spring, called: “Footsteps” based on the Bible verse:

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23

Now, that I am a grandparent, (Mamaw is my name), I have many other size steps that are watching me. A simple illustration  that was pointed out by my beautiful grandchildren was the terminology that I use. Not really paying attention, but was sweetly told to me that I say often:  “Hallelujah”, “Mercy” and the phrase: “Oooo, doggie”. (my beautiful granddaughters pointed that out to me.) Then when I was caring for my grand boys, the youngest was playing with legos. I was in the kitchen fixing dinner. Then I heard a small voice say when his lego tower fell over: “Oooo doggie.” Yes, a very simple illustration, I know, but wow, do children follow the lead.

Well, today I have been thinking about some steps parents should consider when raising their children and I  want to share them with you:

1. Remember each child is from God.
2. Teach them God’s love for them.
3. Teach them to pray and read their Bible.
4. Take them to church, live the example.
5. Pray for your child, support them, guide them, love and be truthful with them.
6. Be a Listener.
7. Teach them to respect authority.
8. Discipline and be fair.
9. Keep your word. Don’t promise what you can’t deliver.
10. Say, “I love you” many, many times.
11. Be generous and give hugs.
12. Allow them to dream.
13. Do not compare your child to other children.

You may think it is too late because your children are old enough to be on their own. Now what?  You must always pray for them and support them. When we pray we are asking God to get involved in the situation. I have one more Bible verse that comes right after Psalm 37:23.

“Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. Psalm 37:24

Ask for wisdom from God as you step forward. Enjoy your children. You may have big steps ahead of you, but with God’s help, you can lead and guide your own; to not follow in your steps, but to walk beside you, as they follow God’s steps for them.