I would probably be a teacher even if I didn’t homeschool.  I love the research of finding out new ways to learn and finding out how to get a subject across to a child that doesn’t seem to get it in the usual way.  Before I was a homeschool Mom, I was an elementary school teacher in the public school system.  I always knew that I would homeschool my kids but I also knew I would teach until the time came for me to teach my own children.

All that to say, character training is particular love of mine to find materials that will help my kids in their journey of practicing the fruits of the Spirit.  I use many different materials depending on what I see my kids walking through but I have also been learning from the Lord that even though its good to teach character training, I also need to live it.  Things can sometimes be caught more than taught.  This is encouraging to me because if my kids don’t seem to be getting what we are trying to teach them about the fruits of the Spirit, I know there’s hope that they will get it someday.  Perhaps the best way some of my kids will get their character training will be through watching me.  This is a hopeful and scary thought at the same time.  I desire them to only see and follow the “good” traits and ignore the times when I am not even close to demonstrating the fruits of the Spirit.  I think God has grace for those times when we mess up and I have gone to my kids and asked their forgiveness sometimes.  I was reading a homeschool “how-to” book recently and I was inspired by a poem that the author included in one of the chapters.  I thought I would share it with you.

I Caught Your Faith

I saw you stand bravely for years

But saw no trace of senseless tears

I saw you stand calmly through stress

But caught no glimpse of bitterness

I saw you stand prayerful in grief but saw no trace of unbelief

Though you spoke well of Jesus Christ

I caught your faith, watching your life

Anonymous

Be encouraged that even if you think you aren’t teaching the right thing or maybe your kids don’t seem to be getting the “character” training like you desire, they are watching your life and actions.  You have great influence in your children’s lives and God has chosen you to raise these warriors.  You are doing an amazing job!

Blessings