Training

"That she has trained her children for heaven, rather than for earth, for God, rather than for man--she is the parent that will be considered wise at last. Train with an eye to my children's souls. We are made what we are by training. Our character takes the form of what mold into which our first years were cast. The path of obedience is the way in which He gives blessing. Determine to make your children obey you, though it cost you much trouble, and cost them many tears. Obedience is the only reality. The mark of well-trained children is that they do whatsoever their parents command them - cheerfully, willingly and at once." John Ryle 1888.

This quote is from the girltalk blog. It such a beautiful reminder of what our obligation to Him really is and makes the ordinary and mundane so incredibly powerful and important. To guide them through the path of obedience is sometimes, the most laborious task I have ever attempted. Certainly without His mercy and wisdom it would end in utter failure. I am so incredibly grateful for the Godly wisdom that has been provided to me through his word and the sisters in Christ who mentor to me through that.

This picture of Samuel was taken almost 4 years ago and almost seems like it never happened because that passage of time took place so quickly! Therefore, today I must be certain that I am *training them for heaven* with *an eye on their soul*. It definitely puts a purpose in your morning when you see past the pancakes and realize what we are being held accountable for!