More Things Are "Caught" than "Taught"

More Things Are Caught Than Taught

Years ago I remember when I heard  the phrase "More things are caught than taught".  These simple words made me re-visit past events in order to discern what my children may have "caught".  I have always tried to parent intentionally, but these words raised a sense of urgency in me.  I began to think about the Godly men and women I wanted my children to become and I had to ask myself if they were "catching" this Godly character from me, or if I was just trying to  "teach" it to them.  This was very convicting, uncomfortable and humbling.  I am being stretched in this area as I try to constantly evaluate what is being "caught" by my children.  I am a work in progress.

 As we raise our children in The Lord, there are so many things we want for them.  I want to share with you one resource that was helpful to me.  Proverbs 31 describes a women of Godly characteristics, which I would like to model for Jamie.  Scripture talks about modesty, and I found a resource Secret Keepers (http://secretkeepergirl.com/truth-or-bare) which gave me helpful insight on this issue.  I used this resource to evaluate my own behavior to make sure I am modeling the standards I want my daughter to adopt.

When our children "catch" us reading His Word or praying, this reinforces to them how much we value and treasure our relationship with God. 

There are many things that our children "catch" from us.  I just want to focus on one as I close: what we communicate to our children.

* If we are planning on going to a big event (vacation, birthday party or visiting family) how much do we talk about it, and how often do we talk about going to church on Sunday?

* If there is a scheduling conflict, has our  child heard "I can't because I have to go to church".  Do they feel they are missing out on something because of church?

* Do we put the same importance on talking to our children about what they learn in Sunday School and their quiet time, as we do when we talk to them about their school work?

* How much time is spent on spelling words, and how much time is spent on scripture memory?

These are just a few provoking questions and, hopefully, these will stir more in you.  As you think about what is "caught", it can be uncomfortable, but as we strive to live for The Lord, our children will be blessed by what they are "catching". 

I have a passion for parenting, and at times I feel I fall short.  Only by God's grace am I equipped and sustained.  Through prayer and His Word He directs me.

If we don't teach our children, the world will.

We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of The Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.  Psalm 78:4

Dear Lord,

Thank you for Your Word and the Guidance You give me.   Thank you for the privilege to raise up the next generation for Your Glory.  I pray that I would desire You more, and Your love and peace would continually flow from me and be a witness to my children and others, for Your Glory.

For His Glory,

Carol Nettleton