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Wisdom on a Wednesday: Influence

May 4, 2011 by Tracey 4 Comments

In a recent discussion with my dad on parenting older children, he shared this bit of wisdom.

“Influence is a small coin that should be used sparingly.”

While our children are small, our interaction with them typically consists of their obeying our commands, because – hopefully – we have trained them to do so.  As the adults, we control where they go, who they are with and the influences that enter their lives.

However, as they grow into the teen years, they gain independence and begin making decisions for themselves.  If we have cultivated our relationship with them during the early years, the likelihood is greater that they will ask us for counsel when unsure of what to do. 

It is at this point that our influence as parents comes into play.  We seek to guide them with Biblical counsel and wisdom gained from our own experiences.  Surely, the stronger the bonds that we’ve formed with our children, the more influence we will have.   

Yet, as I ponder my dad’s statement, I realize that I cannot exert my influence in every situation or it will be valued less and less.  I will need discernment as to when to use that influence and when to let them find their own way, learning and maturing in the process.

Looking back, I see that my dad, in his Godly wisdom, did exactly that with his children.  I am blessed to have his example to follow with my own daughters when that time arrives.

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Filed Under: Parent

Comments

  1. Aurie says

    May 4, 2011 at 11:11 am

    How wonderful that you are able to pull from his wisdom for your own children! such a lasting blessing.

    Happy Wednesday to you!

    Reply
  2. Jennifer @ Just Peachy in Dixie says

    May 4, 2011 at 11:21 am

    Isn't this soooo hard?! I just pray daily that I'm influencing in the right places. 🙂

    Thanks for sharing!

    Jennifer @ http://justpeachyindixie.blogspot.com

    Reply
  3. Clara says

    May 4, 2011 at 11:59 pm

    Such wise advice. I sure hope I always remember it – and not just remember it, but practise it too!

    Reply
  4. Melissa says

    May 6, 2011 at 2:31 am

    Isn't it wonderful to have a godly father! I'm so thankful for my dad and his wisdom.

    Reply

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Welcome! I'm Tracey, wife and mom to two young adult daughters. I seek to help Christian moms raise children who know, love, and serve God by sharing Biblical wisdom, helpful tips, and practical advice. Read More…

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