We all want to measure up as parents, but we walk a fine line.

For instance, we want to protect our kids without being overbearing. But on the other hand, we can get so busy that we are easily disconnected or uninvolved.

The pendulum can swing too far in either direction. We struggle to find balance in order for this relationship to be healthy. We constantly struggle to discern how much we should let go and how long we should hold on. You can’t hold on too long, but you don’t want to let go too soon.

Parenting is such a daunting task. We need God’s help to get it right. Parents are constantly trying to prepare their children to be the people God created them to be and to prepare them for everything life is going to throw at them.

The goal of parenting: Move my child’s dependence from me to God. Instead of depending on us, we teach them to depend on God. We need to look to God for wisdom and discernment as we seek to fulfill this responsibility.

We also need some friends who can be honest with us and help us see what we may not see on our own. Let’s consider some basic principles on parenting as we think about how we can fight for the important relationship we want to have with our children.

First, be consistent. Model what you want to see in your children. In other words, walk the walk, don’t just talk the talk. The Proverb writer challenges us to train up a child in the way he/she should go, but first, don’t you think it is a good idea to go that way first yourself?

This is about consistency and integrity in parenting. Your children are far more likely to replicate what they see than what they hear.

I always did my best to practice what my kids heard me preach. I wasn’t perfect. I always tried to admit when I blew it. Sometimes, it took longer for me to realize that I blew it than it should have, but I wanted my kids to see integrity in me.

I never wanted my kids to grow up to be bitter preacher’s kids who thought their dad was someone different at church than at home or as someone that loved the church more than I loved them.

I did the best I knew how. To be honest, that didn’t always feel like enough. Even so, that is all that God expects of any of us. Just do your best.

Steve Greene is the lead pastor of The Point in Seymour. Read his blog at pastorgreene.wordpress.com or email him at [email protected]. Send comments to [email protected].