Having children is a mind-boggling responsibility. Each child has unique challenges and blessings. Each situation has potential for travesty or truth. Each parent has opportunity to nettle or nurture. However, we aren't expected to parent alone. God will guide us and lead us as we care for his lambs.

So, what are some tips that we can use so that we can raise up our children in a godly manner. First of all, we need to uplift our children in prayer. Prayer is our channel of communication to God. Without communication,we can't follow His direction. Second, we can model godly behavior. Children model what they see. If you have ever heard your child play house, you'll think that you were the one playing by the words that are said. Children are great mimickers. Third, we need to live up to the baptismal vows for our children. We promised to raise them up to know the Lord. We need to do that to the best of our ability. We need to be there to get them to Sunday School, church, bible class and whatever else is available to teach and nurture our kids.

Our children are not our own, but as long as we are here on this earth, we have a responsibility to raise children to know and love the Lord. In Mark, it is stated that Jesus told his disciples to "Let the children come unto me." Jesus valued children and knew their potential to further the kingdom. We, as parents, are key players in the future of God's kingdom, beginning with raising godly kids.