Raising Godly Boys Minute

Everyone loves a good comeback story, so here’s one for you– paper maps are making a resurgence!

With digital maps built into many of our cars, you would think paper map sales would continue to fall. But people are realizing that print maps are more helpful than GPS when you’re trying to learn the best way to navigate a new area.

This concept reminds me of why young men today so desperately need male mentors. Sure, your son can observe successful men on social media or on video. But in order to understand what it means to be a man, an in-person, dad-like figure in his life is the map that every young man needs.

So, make sure that boy has a mentor? And get a paper map!

Now if only I can figure out how to fold the thing!

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“Sit still!”
These words are a death sentence to a little boy's morale. 

There are times when boys need to sit still, like at a dentist's office. 

But much of the time we demand they sit still for our convenience, not their good. 
At home when families read or at school during lessons, boys are told to bottle up their God-given energy and focus. They run the risk of getting in trouble when they don’t. 

This is unfair, especially in light of simple solutions.

When you read with your son, let him fidget with something or even pace the room. If he can’t sit still, take him outside a few minutes to play and try again. 
Don’t demand their attention without giving them an outlet for their energy.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ahhh … vacation!

Do you remember the last time you went on vacation? Before leaving, you probably spent time thinking about what clothes and other items you’d need at your destination. Then you probably gathered all those things together and packed them into a suitcase.

On this journey called parenthood, it’s even more important to bring everything necessary. Begin by packing love. Next, fold in joy. After that, squeeze in humor, laughter, and a bunch of fun. And, of course, don’t forget to include patience, gratitude, and forgiveness. This is just the beginning.

Make sure you come up with your own packing list as you journey through the hills and valleys of parenthood.

To help you along the way, Trail Life USA has fun and exciting programs that are helping boys grow into godly men. For more information, visit RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Fore!

If you’ve ever played golf, you’re probably familiar with the term “mulligan.” That’s a fancy word that simply means “do-over.” If you’re on the tee and you slice the ball off into the trees, you might shout, “Mulligan!” You’re basically saying that you want a second try.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could get a parenting “mulligan” every once in a while? Maybe you chose your favorite TV show over spending time with your son. Or maybe you reacted impatiently during a moment of frustration.

Even though you can’t have a parenting do-over, you can always start fresh from where you are! The key is to purpose in your heart to do a better job, and then ask the Lord for strength and wisdom to follow through.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Parents, have you been there?

Your son has tears in his eyes as he shows you that he got another “D” on his math test. You start explaining why perseverance is important, but his eyes glaze over. You decide to try a different approach.

“Son, did I ever tell you about the two classes I failed in middle school?” Your boy raises his eyebrows. You’ve piqued his interest.

It’s easy for us as parents to try lecturing to get our points across. But when Jesus walked on earth, he didn’t give long speeches. Instead, he told stories.

Use the same strategy with your son. When he’s discouraged, recall a struggle you overcame when you were his age, and share that with him. You just might teach him a lesson he will never forget.

For more ideas for raising boys to be Godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.