“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven’. ~Matthew 19:13-14

For years, people have complimented Dave and me on the way we parent our children. Many have asked our “secret”; others have simply “bragged” about how obedient they are, how respectful they are, and how it’s obvious that they love the Lord.

So recently, as I began preparing to teach some parenting classes at our church, one of the topics that came to mind was “Creating Forever Memories“. As I prepared for this particular class, my mind began to think back to my own childhood. I remembered going fishing at the pond down by our house, sitting in front of the fireplace in our huge, green bean-bag, family gatherings, going to the beach, and my step-dad singing, “Good-bye Jo” everytime he left to go on a trip.

In my reflections, one thing that we’ve believed and taught since our children were born became increasingly clear:

Creating memories that last forever is NOT about how much MONEY you spend, how many toys you buy, or how many extravagant trips you go on.

Instead, creating memories that last forever is all about how much TIME you spend and how UNSELFISH you are!

We all have time! It’s what we do with that time that really counts!

In my new CD series, “Got Kids: Now What? Growing Kids God’s Way” (soon to be released), I give 50 ideas that will cost you little or no money but will build lifetime memories. I thought I’d share a few of those with you now:

1. Pray with your kids

2. Go on Pic-Nic’s (either at the park or in your own yard)

3. Fly Kites together

4. Have a family Candle-light Dinner together

5. Have Weekly or Monthly Game Night

6. Back-Yard Sports (i.e. throw football, play basketball, hit golf balls, etc.)

7. Go Fishing

8. Go to the Beach or Lake

Words cannot express the importance of our role as parents. It is not only our responsibility, but our calling to impact our children’s lives in such a positive way that they learn to hear God’s voice, seek His face, obey His will, and follow His call!

Be encouraged today: Your children are your first and most important ministry! All other responsibilities, desires, ministries, and goals should be kept in perspective and should never overshadow the precious Call of being a godly parent!