Courageous Joy

Parenting Study

Months ago I began a parenting study. I posted thoughts and a few things back then. You can go back and find those things by clicking the "parenting" link at the end of this entry. In fact, if you aren't familiar with me and wonder about my "spirit" or my "attitude" it would be well to go and read WHY I'm doing a study. {G} I won't rewrite it all at this time.

Frankly, I haven't posted further because I chickened out. I have been working on my study but I don't really like being a target for my convictions any more than the next person. Some have asked about my study. I guess I'll have to come clean and post. In the near future you will begin to see more notes from my study.

Please know from the start that I am NOT condenmning or judging anyone who has parented or currently parents different than me. I'm simply sharing what I have learned in my study of the Word. It has been a good study for me. I've been renewed during my study. I've been thrilled and delighted and convicted at various times. Maybe reading an entry called "Disputable Matters" posted with the label of heart thoughts would help you to know that this is NOT a "defining issue" for me.

I fully realize that many of you will disagree with a few of my conclusions. That's fine. I also fully realize that there are lists of experts who disagree with me. The thing is that there are also lists of experts that will agree with me. THIS is the very reason I did this study and have committed not to read another single parenting book until I am done. I want the WORD to speak to me and not another.

These are principles we've lived out in our home. This is not new ground to me personally. Often I study something, figure out why I want to do what I want to do, and then don't remember all the research that went into making the decision (food choices, laundry brand etc). I wanted to get all my thoughts in one spot...and really....can you ever get all your thoughts on parenting in one spot????As soon as you finish one aspect a new aspect pops up.

So....if you've forgotten or not read other thoughts I had on parenting....check out the link, scroll to the end and see what I've said before...because I am going to try hard not to be redundant: Compliance vs Obedience, God's discipline, Where's the Grace?

As always - you are FREE to have your own convictions. I simply share mine.