To My Child:
Things I Can & Cannot Do

I can share your life, but I cannot live it for you.
I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn.
I can give you directions, but I cannot always lead you.
I can allow you freedom, but I cannot account for it.

I can take you to worship, but I cannot make you believe.
I can teach you right and wrong, but I cannot decide for you.
I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you.
I can teach you to be a friend, but I cannot make you one.

I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish.
I can teach you respect, but I cannot force you to show honor.
I can tell you the facts of life, but I cannot build your reputation.
I can tell you about lofty goals, but I cannot achieve them for you.

I can teach you to obey, but I cannot answer for your actions.
I can warn you about sins, but I cannot establish your morals.
I can love you as my child, but I cannot place you in God’s family.
I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God.

I can teach you about Jesus, but I cannot make Him your Savior.
I can teach about prayer, but I cannot make you pray.
I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you Eternal Life.

“My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not!” (Prov. 1:10)

“Children obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth” (Eph. 6:1-3)

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