Here are some more good quotes from the Jim Townsley book
A Heart For the Home that I found interesting....
"I imagine every person would change some things if they could"
(speaking about the past), "but it is important to realize our past is an
accumulation of good and bad, and we may learn from both. Learning
to accept who we are and recognize that we are sinners helps us form
a proper perspective for the future. The things I cannot change I must
accept, and the things I can change, by God's grace, I will."
Under the heading "Practical Ways to Admonish Your Children"....
"Read to your children." (So thankful that both my daughters & their
husbands read to my grandchildren!) "Children enjoy stories and learn
basic lessons from them. Reading Bible stories is a very important
habit for young minds, and early on daily Bible reading must become a
staple in the home. We will be the same tomorrow as we are today, except
for the books we read and the people we meet."
"Hugs and kisses provide a sense of safety and security and are good
reasons to hold and touch your children. Man is made in such a way
that caresses are needful. Abundant love and affection should be displayed,
particularly while children are young. Well-adjusted children have been
given much love and affection."
"Aim at nothing and we are bound to hit it. Rearing children is not like
spinning the wheel of fortune.Training children to live for God is more
choice than chance.From an early age, begin with the end in mind. What
do you want them to be?" (Or what does God want them to be....) "Once
you envision your child as an adult, consider the necessary steps to help
them realize their highest potential."
"One day your children will look back on their childhood either with
remorse or thankfulness."
So much of this I wish I had read and instituted when all my children
were little. Homeschooling was a great way to have Bible time with them,
yet I wish now I had started earlier.....though I am very proud of all our
children and how they have all chosen to have a close walk with the Lord!
That last quote...."one day your children..."......WHEW! It really caught my
attention! I know our home life was not perfect, but I think the Lord really
intervened and helped us produce some fine adults! Sinful man can only
produce sinful men were it not for the grace of GOD! Thank you Lord!