Sometimes, parenting can be stressful and worrisome. When I look at the world today it makes me wonder what we were thinking when we decided to have kids and bring them into a place like this. But then I have a day like yesterday and have to stop and thank God for blessing us the way we have been blessed with three wonderful young men.
My oldest read scripture yesterday in the worship service, and if you know him, you have to stop and say, “Wow, he got up in front of all those people!” It was really cool to get up and preach after he had read the passage – he did a great job and I am really proud of him. My middle one, week in and week out, has committed to run the video for our services. All the slides for the music, etc. are visible because of the work he does during the service. I am really proud of him as well – that takes real commitment. Then at the end of the service, during the invitation and prayer time, my youngest came up to me at the front of the church and asked to pray with me about God’s guidance for our family.
I have to tell you – God has truly blessed Kristi and me. I wish we could take credit for them but in all honesty, God has blessed us with some pretty cool guys!
Thank you Lord – now help us to encourage them to continue and guide us as we try to guide them.
Clay in the Hands 
Loved reading this. I’m coming out of the other side of parenting in my relationship with my mom and dad. Their parenting responsibilities are evolving into really great friends. This summer as I’ve spent A LOT of time with each of them, I’ve become very aware of how much that pride they had (and have) in me matters.
I hope they read your post, because it makes a difference to hear these words. I know it definitely has in my life to hear my parents voice their support and pride.
I hope my kids don’t see this or I’ll look like a dead beat dad until I post something on my blog about how great they are! hahaha Seriously, this is a great post and I’m sure it means the world to your boys even if they never mention it to you!
Brian,
Your boys are very lucky to have a dad that treasures them as you do. Enjoy every moment! Time vanishes quickly, and they will be grown before you know it.
My daughter has officially “moved out” and starts her first real job as a high school teacher/coach, and my son leaves for college in ten days. They are both great kids. I know what you mean about God blessing you. We do our best to raise them right, but so do a lot of other parents who are not nearly so lucky.
I think our most powerful parenting tool is a LOT of prayer! God bless you and your family! I love reading your blog! It makes me proud that the great guy I went to school with continued to grow and serve the Lord. I think at least some of the credit for great sons falls back to you and Kristi!
Dear,dear Brian,
What a beautiful picture of the true love of a father for his sons! A mirror of the Father’s love for His Son. My most grateful moments have been watching my sons praising God and using their talents in worship. I thank God every day that He is their Father! Please know that I am so proud of you, my precious cousin, and your amazing family. Blessings, always!