Raising Godly Boys Minute

Have you ever seen a boy bite into a lemon? If so, his face probably scrunched up into wrinkles because of the super sour taste.You may have never bitten into a lemon, but in life, we all experience sour moments. Maybe your son loves basketball. But then, while making a simple layup, he sprains his ankle and can’t join the school team.During times of unexpected frustration, help your son see through the pain and annoyance. Remind him that God is in control. By shifting our focus away from us and toward God, we gain a better perspective of His plan and purpose.When life becomes sour, stir in the sweet realization that God knows best. By trusting in Him, you’ll transform life’s lemons into lesson-learning lemonade.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys love fireworks! There’s just something about a monstrous Bang!—Boom!—and Blast! that shakes the air and excites the heart. As the sky vibrates with fiery explosions, fingers tingle with excitement, and fountains of sparkling light shine down on smiling faces.But guess what lasts even longer than firecrackers and bottle rockets? Memories do! Have fun with your son as you ring in the New Year together. As you show interest in him, he’ll be more likely to seek your help when peer pressure and temptation come his way.Boys desperately need a father figure who can be a godly mentor and guide to them. Be that figure in your son’s life.For information about a Proven Process that’s growing boys into godly men, visit TrailLifeUSA.com/raisinggodlyboys.

As January 1st approaches, do you plan to make any New Year’s resolutions? About 32% of Americans do. Here are the top 3 resolutions they make:Get More ExerciseLose WeightSave MoneyEven though these are commendable resolutions, there’s something even more important that we should strive toward. That’s loving the Lord our God with all our heart and soul and mind. Of course, that’s easier said than done. But guess what? As God transforms your heart and mind, He will transform your relationships, too. Don’t let the busyness of life distract you from investing time and attention in your kids. Don’t look back on these important years with regret. Instead, commit to being the best Mom or Dad you can be. Remember, you’re not alone in this parenting journey. For help and encouragement, visit TrailLifeUSA.com/raisinggodlyboys.

Boys love statistics—the crazier the better! For instance, did you know that the average American eats around 23 pounds of ice cream a year? Talk about brain freeze!Here’s another statistic: Each year contains almost 9,000 hours! That’s a HUGE number. But do you know how YOU spent your time throughout this past year?How many hours did you stare at your phone?How many hours did you spend with your son?As the New Year approaches, be intentional with how you invest your time in your son’s life. Speaking of ice cream, here’s a simple idea. Hop in the car and visit a nearby ice cream shop. As you share a bunch of smiles and laughs, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.For outdoor adventures, you and your son can enjoy together, visit TrailLifeUSA.com/raisinggodlyboys.