How can we raise boys who love adventure?

Here are a few simple ways to encourage boys to not always play it safe but develop their God-given spirit of bravery:

Encourage outdoor family activities that involve a healthy level of risk.  Whitewater rafting, tubing on rivers, and waterfall hiking are a few. 

Selectively allow children to oversee their own projects.  It’s messy and not “perfect,” but they can own it.

Enjoy adventurous yard toys like zip-lines and trampolines.  We can’t always play it safe!

Plan vacations to new places.  Try different cities, restaurants, and entertainment. 

As God shapes the lives of our children, He can use the raw material of learning to take risks and mold them into people who change their worlds!

For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you remember the song “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands”?

The song’s lyrics talk about God, saying:

• He’s got the wind and the rain in his hands.
• He’s got the little, tiny baby in his hands.
• He’s got you and me, brother, in his hands.
• He’s got you and me, sister, in his hands.
• He’s got everybody here in his hands. 

The Bible says God holds on to us with his “righteous right hand.”

This image shows us God’s power – and our utter helplessness and dependency on him. But you have no reason to fear because of God’s promised protection.

So, while things may get messy and scary, you can rest assured that God will always hold you in his hands.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is your son able to “blend” his emotions?

When going on a hike, you bring along a bar that contains a mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, since your body needs  different nutrients to stay healthy.

In the same way, Child psychologist Dr. Mary Polce-Lynch says that healthy development in boys includes teaching them that they can feel seemingly conflicting emotions at the same time. For instance, when your son is sad about not making the soccer team, he may also feel relieved that he will have more free time. Or when he’s angry at his dad, he still will feel love towards his dad at the same time.

This “blending” of emotions doesn’t come naturally, but is an essential skill that you can teach with some simple intentionality.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What are you most afraid of?

According to a 2014 Washington Post article, fear of public speaking was America's biggest phobia, with 25.3 percent of the people saying they were afraid of speaking in front of a crowd.

A 2022 study listed “corrupt government officials” as Americans’ biggest fear.

With the world seemingly spinning out of control, we can easily allow fear and anxiety to paralyze us.

While some fears are justified, we cannot let them to rob us of the peace God provides.

Remember the charge that Moses gave to Joshua: “You shall not fear them, for it is the LORD your God who fights for you” (Deuteronomy 3:22).

No matter what you are facing, don’t focus on your fear. Instead, focus on God’s promises, provision, and power. He is faithful!

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son struggle in math class? Did he miss the big play on the sports field that would have won the game?

Failures and fiascos will trip up your son. You wish he’d only see success, but that’s unrealistic. Even when we try our very best, disappointment and discouragement can still strike. And when it does, your son may experience frustration and exasperation. These are normal human emotions, but we don’t have to give in to them.

Instead, remind your son that failures don’t define who he is. If he has accepted Christ as his savior, he is a child of the King. Because of that, your son is of incredible worth to God. And that’s way more important than any school grade or sports event.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How big is your dream for your son?

Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic, writes that a “vision is a glowing word-picture of a desirable and optimistic future.” As parents, we can paint that portrait for our kids, conveying that life is more than just existing, paying bills, and managing problems.

God created them and has a deep interest in their lives.

Boys need heroes – more than just movie and music stars. Parents, familiarize your family with stories of noble heroes. Read biographies, watch movies and documentaries, and hear radio dramas of missionaries, statesman, inventors, Presidents, and soldiers. Visit historic sites and homes of great Americans.

I want to instill a life-long desire for excellence and possibilities. 

For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What comes to mind when you see these three words? “Some Assembly Required”

For many parents, these words bring back memories of a painful process of reading instructions, sorting through parts, and putting everything together — all under the watchful eye of your child as he waits with anticipation to play with his new toy.

Following instructions can be time-consuming and frustrating, but it will save you time and frustration in the long run.

Just like following instructions is a proven process for assembling toys, Trail Life USA has a proven process for growing boys into godly men. In a culture lacking any clear vision of positive masculinity, we must provide boys with a template to follow.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

This Memorial Day, as we honor those who have paid the highest price for our freedom, be sure your son understands the true meaning of “honor.”

No one embodies true honor like the men and women, both active and retired, in our nation’s military. Your son can learn this by engaging with veterans.  He can march in a parade, clean a monument, or work with the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

This he can do as a memorial to those who have given their lives in service. A high embodiment of value.  Discuss what it means to be a man who serves God and his country. As we say in our Trail Life USA oath, it’s a man who “respects authority, is a good steward of creation, and treats others how [he] wants to be treated.”

When boys see honorable examples of masculinity, they grow to become honorable men.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is your son experiencing “sideways” emotions?

In her book Boy Talk, Dr. Mary Polce-Lynch tells the story of an 11-year-old boy named Andrew. Andrew had suddenly started having headaches and stomachaches. His parents were baffled because– although they had gone through a difficult divorce a few years earlier– things had since settled.

Dr. Polce-Lynch figured out that the physical symptoms were a delayed reaction to the divorce. She patiently helped Andrew work through the emotions he had long buried.

If your son has unexplained physical or behavioral issues, consider that he may just now be coping with a stressful event that happened before. Prayerfully offer him grace, patience, therapy, or simply time to work through his complicated emotions.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How can you teach your son empathy?

Start by modeling this skill in your own life. If the grocery store checker is rude to you, when you get in your car, say out loud to your son, “I wonder if that checker is having a bad day, and dealing with some tough things!”

Help your son do this too. If he mentions someone at school who he doesn’t get along with, ask, “How do you think that person is feeling?” If your son says he doesn’t know, encourage him to guess. Remind him that people who hurt others are often insecure or fearful.

You can also memorize verses together about empathy, such as Phillippians 2:3- “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility, count others more significant than yourselves.”

For more ideas to raise godly boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever seen your reflection in one of those silly circus mirrors that make you look super short or extremely skinny? Some mirrors can even make you look upside down.

Although we’re not at a circus or looking into a strange mirror, today’s culture sometimes makes us feel as if we’re living in an upside-down world. That which is good is put to shame. And that which is evil is paraded with pride.

The result is that kids are left confused about what’s actually right or wrong.

When complex cultural issues arise, open the pages of Scripture and show your kids what the Bible says is right and wrong. In this way, you’ll help your kids understand that God’s Word is an infallible mirror … our perfect source of truth.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who is the most generous person you know?

You may think you have to be rich to be generous, but that’s not true.

Mother Teresa said, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”

God is our model for generosity. You cannot outgive God. He freely gives and lovingly provides for his children. God will give you what you need out of his infinite riches.

In gratitude for everything God has given you, you should be generous to him and others.

Remember 1 Timothy 6:18 and teach your children to “be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.”

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Crowds follow individuals who communicate well. Every business, church, school, or ministry needs such people.

Help your kids know how to speak well. Create opportunities for them to stand in front of other people and speak about anything. Ask your six-year-old to stand in front of the family at night and talk about his favorite super-hero.

We can also challenge boys to write clearly - to present an idea and support it with evidence.

We live in a day where the battle for culture rages around who controls the flow of ideas. Help your children know how to open their mouths and communicate verbally. Talk about great ideas in your home, and challenge your children to learn to communicate those ideas.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you know what the letters WWJD stand for? You’ll find the acronym on everything from bracelets to T-shirts to key chains. The letters stand for, What Would Jesus Do?

This phrase reminds Christians to put Jesus first in all that we do. As parents, we need this reminder, but so do our kids. And the best way for them to learn this is to see it demonstrated in action.

So the next time you’re faced with financial stress, work problems, or a health crisis, take a moment to sit next to your son and go to the Lord in prayer. When your son sees and hears you ask the Lord for help, he’ll understand that WWJD is more than a bumper sticker. It’s a way of life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

While on a road trip, have your kids ever whined, “Are we there yet?”

When the journey is long, we grow impatient. We want to arrive at the destination as fast as possible. And if roadblocks make us veer off course, we grow frustrated. Sometimes even angry.

The same is true in the parenting journey. Our children are maturing socially, mentally, and spiritually—but sometimes not as fast as we’d like. We want them to develop responsibility as quickly as possible, but then we grow impatient whenever a detour sends them off track.

Avoid unreasonable expectations. Realize that your son’s developmental process takes time—and that’s okay. Instead of constantly wishing he were already at the destination, take time to enjoy life’s journey with him.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 25% of American kids live without a father or father-like figure in their homes. You heard that right. On average, 1 out of every 4 kids doesn’t have a dad to give them piggyback rides, help them with homework, or tuck them into bed at night. That’s tragic!

If you have the privilege of being a dad, make sure to be there for your kids. Don’t just live in your house. Make that house a home where smiles abound, and laughter is loud.

And if you know a boy who doesn’t have a father who’s around, include him in activities with you and your son. Your actions may be small, but they just might make a world of difference to a lonely kid.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When your son was young, did he ever point at someone in a wheelchair? Do your older kids whisper about the new kid who stutters or has a deformity?

Teach your kids never to make fun of someone with a handicap. Because we live in a sin-cursed world where physical and mental handicaps exist, these handicaps make life really hard for these people.

As Christians, we can’t make those handicaps go away, but we can show courtesy and compassion. Teach your son to hold the door open for someone in a wheelchair. Teach your kids to listen patiently to someone who stutters.

By helping your kids treat people kindly, they’ll focus less on the handicap and more on the person’s personality.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you a fraud? Do you act one way at home and another way at church?

More than ever, teenagers connect with people who are authentic in their motives and genuine in their behavior. As a parent, your son sees you at your best, but also at your worst.

When you realize that you aren’t displaying the attitude and actions of a Christ-follower, the most difficult—and yet most meaningful—thing you can do is admit your faults. Explain to your son that shouting or losing your temper wasn’t the right way for you to respond to frustration.

Admitting your faults won’t make your son respect you less. In fact, the opposite is true. Being authentic and genuine will make him see what a great dad he really has.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

This Mother’s Day, minister to a single mom of a son.

Every single mom is a hero. And single moms who have boys? They should wear capes. Raising a boy– who needs a ton of exercise, outdoor activity, focused attention, and healthy risk taking– is a joy, but can be exhausting.

If you don’t know a single mom, ask a local church about their single moms ministry– they will be able to give you some names. Then, pray about the best gift to give. Some ideas are an anonymous check, a grocery gift card, or a coffee gift card. And if you know her well, offer to take her son on a fun outing. You won’t only be giving her a break, but her son will appreciate the extra attention.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son have a nickname?

Many kids do. Some nicknames like Ace or Champ are fun and cute, while others like Rooster, Zippy, and Waffle usually come from some hilarious event or personality trait.

Nicknames are common, but there’s a nickname that only your son can call you. That’s the exclusive name of Dad.

It isn’t by accident that God gave you to your son, and your son to you. In his all-knowing wisdom, God placed you both together. As a dad, you have the responsibility of raising your son properly, but you also have the incredible joy of seeing him grow and mature into a man.

Never forget the privilege of being a dad. Count your blessings and name them one by one.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How do you like your eggs prepared? Scrambled and sunny side up are the most popular, but some people like them hard boiled or over easy.

Just as there are many ways to cook an egg, there are also many ways to discipline your son to correct wrong behavior. Of course, you wish discipline were never necessary, but that’s an unreasonable eggs-pectation.

When your son blatantly disobeys, don’t let his behavior eggs-asperate you. Set an eggs-ample by remaining calm. During these difficult moments, eggs-amine your words and actions to make sure they are motivated by love.

Although discipline is never fun, it’s sometimes necessary. The goal, however, is to teach your son right from wrong. And as he learns this, eggs-cuses will transform into eggs-cellence of character.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you have a kindergartener, have you taught him to drive yet? If you have a teenage son, are you giving him tummy time?

Of course not, but in the busyness of everyday life, you might forget where your youngest and oldest children are in their developmental process. Understanding the specific age and stage of each child is vital in seeing where he’s come from … and where he still needs to go.

So, if you’re treating your kindergartener like a teenager, or your teenager like a toddler, reevaluate your expectations and instruction. Because each child is unique, don’t compare one child’s progress to another. As always, ask God to give you wisdom in guiding your children in becoming mature, responsible, and godly adults.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The human eye is incredible! Even though it has over two million working parts, it’s the fastest muscle in the body. It also distinguishes millions of colors.

And yet, our eyes often miss what’s most important in life. When your son is on the soccer field, are you watching, or are you scrolling through social media on your phone? Can you detect when your son is frustrated, or do you not even notice?

To connect emotionally with your son, begin by turning your eyes upon Jesus. When you do this, your role as a father will come into proper focus.

But don’t delay. In the blink of an eye, your son will be grown and out of the house. Influence his life right now while there’s still time.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The kindergarten teacher looked at the parents and frowned.

“Your son just won’t sit still,” she said. “He always wants to move and look at things throughout the room.”

The boy’s mom furrowed her brows. “Not to be disrespectful, but why is sitting still an important skill for a five year old?”

That boy’s mom was asking an excellent question. While there is a time and place to learn how to focus, not being able to sit still is very developmentally appropriate for a five-year-old.

If your son’s educators aren’t giving him any grace to simply be a boy, it may be time to look at alternatives, such as homeschooling or a Montessori school. At the very least, make sure your son gets plenty of outdoor exercise after school.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys as they grow up,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When was the last time you had to remind yourself to breathe?

Unless you're exercising, breathing is the most natural thing. But what isn’t easy or natural is using our breath the way God intended.

Too often, we use our breath to say words that are mean, sarcastic, and rude. Our kids hear our speech and begin imitating our volume, tone, and vocabulary.

Instead of using our breath in negative ways, we should follow the advice found in Psalm 150. Verse 6 says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

Instead of complaining and bickering, use your breath to thank the Lord for his goodness and grace. The more you praise him, the more your kids will also develop an attitude of gratitude.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What do you worry about most?

Is it your finances, health, family, or something else?

The Bible tells us to give our worries to God.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Philippians 4:6

You can’t work your way into peace. You can only experience peace by taking everything to God with a heart of praise and prayer. That doesn’t mean you need to pretend to be thankful for hardships, but you can be thankful that God wants you to go to him with your needs.

The best way to experience peace is to stop trying to do it on our own. Take it to God!

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Nearly 70% of Americans own a pet. But can you guess what kind of pet is the most popular?

If you answered dog, you’re right! From pugs to poodles . . . from beagles to bulldogs—canine companions share a place in our house and in our hearts. That’s why they’re called man’s best friend.

Dogs are definitely cute, but they’re also a great way to connect with kids. When it’s time for your son to walk Duffy or Max or whatever you’ve named your dog, head on out the door with them. As you walk together, talk to your son about school or sports or whatever topic he’s interested in. The more time you spend with your son, the more he’ll see that you’re actually his best friend.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever picked up a large rock and dropped it into a still pond?

After the initial plunk, circular ripples will flow out in every direction. The ripple effects are inevitable, just like the aftereffects of sin are inevitably felt in our lives and the lives of those around us.

First Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

When faced with sin’s temptation, will you choose to take God’s escape route or give in to the temptation?

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When you have a problem, do you usually ask for help or try to figure things out on your own?

One hindrance to the power of God in our lives is our unwillingness to reach out to him for help and trust him to meet our needs.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7

We limit what God wants to do for us when we don’t trust him to meet our needs.

What if we put our complete trust in God for everything we need? He wants to take care of and bless his children.

The question is: Are you willing to receive his blessings?

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When have you felt a “healthy fear”?

While working with electricity, you should have a “healthy fear” of its power and take the proper safety precautions.

The Bible talks about having a “healthy fear” of the Lord.

The all-powerful and all-loving Creator of the universe fully deserves our fear and respect.

Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.”

Fearing God gives us the foundation to face all our other fears.

When you or your child is afraid, ask God to allow it to draw you closer to Him. You can face your fears confidently, knowing God is greater than all your fears.

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What does it mean to “guard your heart”?

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.”

This proverb is written by a father to his son, but the instructions apply to everyone — no matter their age.

Your heart is the source of your thoughts and feelings. Guarding your heart requires keeping your focus on the things of God. So many things in our world can pull our hearts away from being focused on God.

Remember Philippians 4:8 and “fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does anyone like to suffer?

The apostle Paul knew a lot about suffering. He suffered beatings, imprisonments, and shipwrecks. In Colossians 1:24, Paul said he “rejoiced” in his sufferings. What? How could he rejoice in suffering? Because God used it to advance the gospel.

Paul also pointed out that suffering strengthens our perseverance, character, and hope.

Most of us have little experience with real suffering. We don’t even like minor inconveniences like waiting in a long line.

No matter your circumstances, God has a purpose and plan for your life.
Let’s ask God to help us see and teach our boys the value of suffering for His kingdom’s sake.

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever had a divine encounter with someone who came into your life at just the right time, and you knew it was a “God thing”?

I heard about a family that had a flat tire at Christmastime. They pulled into the closest repair shop they could find. The technician who came out to help them was named “Emmanuel.” He agreed to fix the flat even though the shop had just closed. Every Christmas, this family tells their “Emmanuel” story as a reminder that God is always with us.

God orchestrates every meeting you have with someone for a purpose. Sometimes, that purpose is life-changing; other times, not so much. But they are all divine appointments.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you find yourself playing the comparison game, comparing yourself to others?

If so, you need to remind yourself of this truth: You are created uniquely by God — “fearfully and wonderfully made.” There isn’t another person in the world like you.

It’s a message we share with our kids regularly but don’t apply to ourselves enough. When we fail to remember that God has created us uniquely and has a specific calling and purpose for our lives, we are tempted to compare ourselves to others.

We justify our actions by thinking, “At least I’m not as bad as that person.”

When we stand before God, he will not ask us about our neighbor’s actions. We will only answer for ourselves.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do the things you say build people up or tear them down?

Our words have more power than we realize.

Proverbs 15:4 says, “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”

King Solomon, who wrote much of Proverbs, points out the pain caused by our hurtful speech. Harsh words cut deeply, and their damage is long-lasting.

On the other hand, Solomon also points out the power of our positive words. Most of us are not doctors, but our speech can heal and give life. It can infuse others with renewed courage, faith, and hope.

God, help us to honor you with our words by offering hope and healing to the people around us.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s love got to do with it?

Well…quite a lot. Jesus spoke about love often and at one point was quoted as saying, “love your neighbor as yourself”, which was a reference from Leviticus 19:18.

But how do we do that? There are many people who do not love themselves or see the value God has placed in them. How can we properly love others as ourselves when we despise ourselves? In order to love others well we must love who God has made us to be. Then we will have the confidence of the Father’s love and affirmation in our hearts as we love others through Him.

Take some time today to reflect on how great God’s love is toward you and how valuable and special you are to him. Then look for ways to spread that love to your family and others.
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For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever ordered a product through Amazon Prime?

If so, you’re not alone. Over 50% of American households have a Prime membership. From toys to tools, and from shoelaces to shampoo—people love Amazon because of the HUGE variety of items they sell.

But there are some things you can’t buy at Amazon.com. You can’t buy your son a hug. You can’t order him a hearty laugh for $19.95. And you can’t purchase fun outdoor memories with him that will last a lifetime.

Amazon sells over 12 million products, but they can’t deliver your son the joy he’ll experience wrestling with you in the living room. The relationship you have with your son is one of the most priceless things in all of life. Make it count.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys sometimes get hurt. That’s a fact. But when your son cuts a finger or scrapes a knee, what do you do?

If the cut looks dirty, dabbing iodine on it will keep infection away. Even though the antiseptic stings, you know it’s for your son’s own good. You want him to heal.

The same is true in parenting. At one point or another, you’ll have to correct your son when he lies, cusses, or misbehaves. Punishment is never a fun thing—for the child or for the parent—but it’s necessary for healing and growth.

Proverbs 22:6 provides valuable advice. The verse says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How are you doing with your new year’s resolutions?

Every year many people resolve to exercise more and eat healthier.

The Bible tells Christ-followers to take care of their bodies.

“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” First Corinthians 3:16-17

Along with our physical fitness, you also need to train our spiritual muscles. It takes work, but it’s the most important exercise you can do.

“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” First Timothy 4:8

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Nathan was going to buy a motorcycle– at age 15.

He wanted the bike to ride it to his job at a pizza shop. HIs parents told him it would be too dangerous, and suggested a car, instead. Nathan rolled his eyes. 

But one day, Nathan announced that he was going to buy a car, instead. His boss at the pizza shop said a motorcycle would be too dangerous. Nathan’s parents glanced at each other, and smiled in relief.

Steve Biddulph [BID-dulf] tells this story in his book Raising Boys to illustrate that while your teenage son may not listen to you, he will listen to other adults. Pray and take intentional steps to make sure your son has positive, godly men in his life to point him in the right direction.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a simple way to boost your son’s development today.

Researchers have coined a term called “joint attention sequences” to describe what happens when you make a connection with your son. This can happen when you look him in the eyes, laugh when he makes a joke, read stories with him, or praise him for an accomplishment.

In his book Raising Boys, author Steve Biddulph [BID-dulf] says these sequences are more than just moments of delight– they are crucial for your son’s development. Studies have found that, especially when your son is a baby and a toddler, these moments actually help a growth hormone to flood his brain and develop it.

So today, put your phone down and give your son focused, intentional connection. His growing brain will reap the benefits.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

As a parent, you want to give your son the world.

But of course, time, resources, and energy are limited. When you have to tell your son “no, I can’t play with you right now,” or, “No, we can’t buy that toy right now,” you may feel guilty.

But don’t feel bad. Even God, our perfect Father, often answers our prayers and requests with “not right now” or “no.” As you teach your son to wait, you teach him patience, self control, and the value of working towards something that you want.

Maybe things are tight financially for your family right now. If so, remember– you are still a good parent. By not giving your son everything, you’re shaping his character– and that’s a gift that will last a lifetime.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When you were a kid did your parents warn you not to look directly into the sun because it could damage your vision?

When you stare directly at the sun—or other types of bright light such as a welding torch—ultraviolet light floods your retina, literally burning the exposed tissue.

However, there is a Son we need to continually look at — the Son of God, Jesus Christ.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrew 12:2

Teach your son to keep his eyes on the living Son of God.

For more information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What are some things that rise? Maybe you’re thinking about prices, or helium, or a hot air balloon.

But by far, the most amazing thing that has ever risen is the Lord Jesus. If he had stayed dead, people would have no hope and no future. But after three days in the tomb, Jesus conquered death and rose victoriously. And because of that, we can be redeemed.

Have you and your son accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior?

This Easter, make it a point to spend one-on-one time with your son. Together, give thanks for God’s selfless sacrifice on the cross. The more you and your son focus on the Savior, the closer you’ll grow to one another.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

As Easter approaches, what comes to mind?

For many kids, Easter involves egg hunts, bunny-shaped chocolate, and goodie-filled baskets.
But the real meaning of Easter is so much more than this.

As a parent, don’t allow the commercialization of Easter to distract you from the true meaning of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. Teach your son that the Easter story is more than a story. It’s the real-life account of Jesus sacrificially giving his life on the cross. Fortunately (and here’s the incredible part), after three days in the tomb, Jesus conquered death by rising from the dead. And because of that, by his wounds we can be healed.

Does your son know the true meaning of Easter? Take time today to talk to him about God’s free gift of salvation.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ever thought about having your son help you decorate your home for Easter?

We all decorate for Christmas. But as Christians, shouldn’t we show our boy that there’s just as much– if not more– to celebrate at Easter?

Spend some time this year putting up some decorations representing Christs’ sacrifice. These don’t have to be fancy or expensive– display a cross, and frame a verse like Matthew 28:6- “He is not here, for He has risen!” If your son is young, put out some childrens’ books about the Easter story. You can even have a resurrection party– blow up balloons, light candles, and celebrate that Jesus is alive!

Show your son that Easter is incredibly important – the reason we can have a relationship with our perfect heavenly Father.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Resurrection Sunday is almost here!

This day celebrates the fact that Jesus is not dead, but is alive. This is what separates us from all other religions. Since Jesus has been resurrected, He offers a resurrected life to us.

Romans 6:4 says, We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

This “newness of life” should be a way of life for all believers. Jesus took us who were dead because of sin, and resurrected us!

Remember that on Easter Sunday! Jesus has been resurrected and is alive and therefore we can live a resurrected life in Him!

Have a wonderful Resurrection Sunday!

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A surefire way to pique your son’s interest? A snack!  Here’s a snack mix recipe to help you discuss the true meaning of Easter.

Gather up the following: Pretzel sticks, to symbolize the cross; craisins, to represent Jesus’ blood; round crackers, for the stone that was rolled away; a marshmallow, since our sins are forgiven; Goldfish crackers, since Jesus said we should be fishers of men; and chocolate chips, because we taste and see the Lord is good.

Sit down with your son, and discuss the Easter story and what each food represents. Send the mix with your boy to school– or, put a bowl out the next time he has friends over. Help your son use it as an opportunity to share about Jesus’ resurrection.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son have a “lighthouse” person in his life?

It’s interesting– even though more sophisticated navigation technology exists, many ship captains still prefer the simplicity of an old-fashioned lighthouse.

In the same way, your son needs a lighthouse person in his life– someone he can look to as he navigates the difficult waters of boyhood.

This person doesn’t need to be perfect. They don’t need to have all the answers. And they certainly don’t need to be up to current trends. But just like any good lighthouse, they do need to be set apart, carrying a light, and standing strong.

Pray that you can be– or help your son find– a lighthouse person to look to when life is stormy.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you know what it means to do an“alley-oop” or an “ollie”?

While someone could try to explain those basic skateboarding tricks using words, it’s pretty hard to understand until you see someone jump on a skateboard and demonstrate.

This same principle applies when it comes to parenting our son. Sure, we can try to lecture him on the importance of a relationship with Jesus.  But we must allow Jesus to fully transform our own life, first.

Feel like you’ve already failed at showing the fruits of the spirit today? Perfect. Here’s your opportunity to demonstrate repentance, and show your son what it looks like to rest in the sufficient grace God has for all of us.

That’s even more impressive than even the coolest skateboarding trick.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Tammy’s seven-year-old son was angry. His sister had broken his model airplane. Tammy quickly put her arm around her son and began to talk to him. “I know you’re feeling hurt and frustrated,” she said. “Let’s go outside for a minute and jump on the trampoline, and then we’ll talk about it.”

Anger can be a difficult emotion to manage, especially for boys. As parents, it’s crucial that we teach our son how to self-regulate when emotions are high. Any physical activity, like jumping on the trampoline, can work well. You can also have your son smash play dough, do push-ups, or press the palms of his hands together. Show your son that it’s possible to express frustration in healthy ways that don’t hurt himself or others.

For more ideas to raise boys into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When your son lacks motivation, show him the relevance.

Boys are biologically wired to be task-oriented and one-track minded. They also have trouble engaging when there is nothing at stake or they don’t see the value. That’s why some vocations tend to favor one gender over another.

Any time your son seems to lack motivation– whether that’s for cleaning his room, being nice to his sister, or paying attention in math class– it’s possible he feels like those things just aren’t important.

Take him out for a drive and, together, discuss whatever task he is struggling with. Give examples from your own life about how God used something you didn’t think was relevant to pave the way to your future. Show him the relevance, and you’ll probably spark some motivation.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

All it took was one simple check-in.

A teacher noticed an interesting trend in her classroom. While the girls in the class almost always turned in their weekly assignments on time, most of the boys would forget or turn things in late.

This teacher decided to try an experiment. Without drawing attention, she started quietly checking in with each boy in her class throughout the week to see how his assignment was going. The results astonished her– because of that simple check in, most of the male students started meeting the deadlines.

It’s important to remember that boys and girls think and learn differently. If your son needs more reminders than your daughter, don’t shame him for it– find ways to help him. He may just need one simple check in.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you Listening?

We need to listen to our children. One old-school method of dealing with children was “The children should be seen and not heard.” Connecting with our child’s heart, especially our sons, is critical to having a loving relationship with them, and connection begins with listening and understanding. We must value who they are and who God has made them to be.

As we start to listen more to them, we will grow in understanding of who our child is and what makes them thrive. Become a student of your child. Learn what inspires them and what they are passionate about. Be intentional about listening to them, connecting with them, and encouraging them down the right path.

Take time today to listen to your children and value who they are.

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys need to succeed in order to succeed.

Yes, you heard that right. This is why boys and young men can sometimes get stuck in cycles of failure when it comes to their schoolwork or relationships.

Here’s an example. If your son is struggling in school, don’t try to improve his grades in every subject overnight. First, identify the subject he is most interested in or good at– whether that’s gym or science– and help him improve that one grade first. Once that grade starts to get better, you can almost guarantee that your son will start to feel more motivated to do better in school overall.

Positive motivation and reward for a small job done well will always motivate your son.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When you were a kid, did you ever play with transformers?

Boys love the way those cars and trucks transform into really cool robots. Plus, the storyline of Autobots battling it out against the evil Decepticons is exciting.

You probably don’t play with transformers anymore, but in some ways, you’re still like a transformer. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Are you teaching your son to stand strong against the world’s deceit? Victory over evil is only possible when we allow the Lord to transform our hearts and minds.

So, how’s that transformation process coming along? Take time today to pray and read the Bible with your son. Together, you both can transform into something extraordinary.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you use your phone to send text messages?

According to statistics, around 80% of Americans do. Those text messages are often sent to family, friends, and co-workers. And now, more than ever, millions of children also carry a smart phone.

If you’ve decided to provide your son a phone, make sure he uses it responsibly. But in addition to that, use text messaging as a way to connect with him. If you’re out of town during one of his sporting events or other activities, send a quick text:
Hey buddy. You’re in my thoughts and prayers. Just want you to know that I’m so proud of you!

A text message doesn’t take long to type, but the encouragement it provides lasts for days.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ask your son what his perfect afternoon would entail. He will most likely give a very simple answer– such as hours spent playing video games, or fishing. Why?

Everyone’s brain has something called a corpus collosum [kul-oh’-some] that connects the left and right hemispheres. In males, the corpus collosum is much smaller than those in females. This is why girls tend to enjoy multitasking, and boys usually prefer focusing on one task a time.

Keep this design in mind each time you plan your son’s week. Avoid packing his schedule with long days full of various activities, and instead let him spend chunks of time focused on one activity, whether that’s perfecting his hockey skills or practicing target shooting. His male brain will thank you.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

On this St. Patrick’s Day, there’s a lesson your son can learn from the holiday’s namesake.

While the story of St. Patrick is pretty disputed among historians, many believe he was taken prisoner at age 16 and forced to work as a shepherd for years. During those years, he leaned into his Christianity, and became very close with God. It’s also believed that he started thinking about being a missionary during that time.

Growing up is difficult, so your son is likely frustrated with something in his life right now. Maybe he wishes for more freedom, more resources, or less homework. Talk with him about how God uses the “waiting” periods of her life– just like St. Patrick during his imprisonment– to teach us discipline and bring us closer to Him.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys as they grow up,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You’re a parent inside the walls of your home. But what about outside those walls?

Of course, your primary obligation is to parent your own son. But, for better or worse, your son’s friends and peers can have a greater impact on him than you do. So how can you positively influence the whole group?

It’s as simple as being involved in your community. Volunteer at church to teach Sunday School. Coach your son’s soccer team. Join a big brother/big sister program. Or you could even volunteer to be a Trail Life USA leader.

You don’t have to be perfect to positively influence the next generation of men. You just have to show up and show love not only in your home, but outside of it.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that Michael Jordan, considered by many to be the greatest basketball player ever, missed 12,345 field goals in his Hall of Fame career?

He said, “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”

Wayne Gretzky, the NHL’s all-time leading scorer, put it this way: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”

In today’s culture, risk and competition are often removed from boys’ environments. They lose interest when there isn’t anything at stake. So, they think, “Why should I try?”

As parents and mentors trying to raise godly boys, we need to provide challenging opportunities that let boys fail, recover, and eventually succeed.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Colton, a toddler, was riding his toy car when he ran into a stick. His mom watched from behind as Colton got more and more frustrated, but he was stuck.

“Hm,” his mom said,“Is there anything you can do to move the stick?” Colton thought for a minute, then climbed off his car. He beamed with pride when he moved the stick and sailed past it.

When our sons face obstacles in life, it’s tempting to swoop in and remove whatever is in the way. But if we constantly do that, we are failing our boys. By letting them problem solve in age-appropriate ways, we can not only develop their critical thinking skills, but also greatly improve their confidence. So go ahead– encourage your son to move the stick himself.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are men inherently bad?

Of course not. Genesis 1:27 tells us that God created both male and female in His own image.

But there’s a troubling narrative in our society right now that masculinity is toxic. So how can we as Christians fight this damaging idea?

First, we can affirm, not punish, the natural masculine traits that appear in our sons– such as being high energy and risk seeking. Second, we can help our sons find positive dad-like men as examples. And third, we can keep an open line of discussion going with our sons about how masculinity is portrayed in music, TV shows, and social media.

Being a man can be difficult in this day and age. Let’s show our sons that God made men for a divine purpose.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a controversial yet obvious truth– men and women are different!

A quick look at brain science supports this fact. The connections between neurons in the male brain are more condensed than in a female brain. That’s why men tend to focus on the bigger picture while women focus on details. Men use more grey brain matter, which makes them task oriented, while women use more white matter, which contributes to being more language oriented.

In this society that often tries to pit women against men, and calls masculinity “toxic,” it’s crucial that our sons understand that there’s a reason for these differences. Make sure your son has a positive father-figure in his life to help him understand what healthy manhood looks like.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When your son is upset, “How are you feeling?” might not be the right question.

Boys are simply not wired to connect words with feelings. While the female brain has verbal centers in both the left and right hemispheres– allowing girls to use words to process feelings— males only have verbal centers on the left side of their brain.

This is why boys tend to not “talk it out” when they are upset, but instead turn to an unrelated activity, like video games or sports, to process big emotions.

So the next time your son is angry or frustrated, engage him in physical activity, like walking the dog or kicking a soccer ball around the yard. You can be confident he’ll return feeling much calmer.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ever wake to the sound of a chainsaw ripping through wood?

It’s a powerful tool. But it can be dangerous. Like a chainsaw, the internet is a powerful tool, but it’s also dangerous if not used properly.

There’s a wealth of information available to us on the web. However, surfing the internet can become an addictive tidal wave.

Do you start and end your day online? Are you constantly checking your emails and texts and feeling the need to respond immediately?

If so, it might be time to try something radical and life-changing.

Unplug. Consider an internet fast. Go online only for work purposes for the next five days. Tell friends to call instead of emailing or texting. Stay off social media.

Devote the time you would normally spend online to Bible study and prayer. You’ll be shocked at how many of your online activities are unnecessary.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The trials of life are like trails.

They will either lead you closer to God or further away from him.

You can’t choose if you’ll go through a trial, but you can choose how you will react to one.

Being a Christian doesn’t make you immune to trials, but you can take comfort during a trial knowing that you are never alone.

Repeatedly in his word God tells us that he will never leave us or forsake us.

Boys are watching their father figures and mentors to see how they’ll react to a trial — if their walk matches their talk.

Let’s trust God no matter our circumstances. He is faithful!

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that a person can survive for about three days without water?

Health experts commonly recommend drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.

While water is essential for life, Jesus speaks of a different kind of “living water” in John 4.

While talking with a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, he says, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

A glass of cold water will quench your physical thirst, but only following Jesus will quench your spiritual thirst.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A deck of cards could teach your son an important lesson.

Remember the card games you played growing up? Go fish, hearts, nerts, or spades? Search the internet if you need a refresher on the rules, make your son’s favorite snack, and find some decks of cards. It’s time for a family game night.

As you play with your son, you will teach him several important lessons. He will learn to listen and follow rules as you teach him the game. As you play, he’ll practice staying focused. And as you win– or lose– you will show him how men can do both, gracefully and humbly.

And more than anything, putting aside your work and chores to play a game with your son will make him feel loved and valued.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s the most important question you’ve ever asked or been asked?

Will you marry me? Did I get the job? Is the cancer in remission?

While these are all important questions, life’s most important question is found in the Bible in Matthew 16:15-16 when Jesus asked Simon Peter, “But what about you? Who do you say I am?” and Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

What someone believes about Jesus is the most important question he will ever have to answer. Let’s teach our sons about the Son of the living God so they’ll know who he is and be able to share the truth with others.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did your parents ever say, “This is going to hurt me more than you.”

This saying reminds me of Hebrews 12:11.

“No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.”

When God disciplines his children (believers), he does so out of love.

“The Lord disciplines the one he loves, just as a father, the son he delights in.” (Proverbs 3:12)

A parent’s motivation for administering discipline is vital to its effectiveness.

They should follow God’s example with loving discipline. The parent “who loves [his child] disciplines him diligently.” (Proverbs 13:24)

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How many weeks will you have with your child before they become a legal adult?

There are approximately 936 weeks from the day your child is born until he graduates from high school, and the weeks move quickly.

You need to make the most of the time you have with your child. Parenting is a never-ending process, but the developmental years are crucial.

I recommend that you fill a jar with marbles — or pieces of candy if you have a sweet tooth — based on your child’s age – how many weeks before they turn 18. As you take a marble out of the jar each week, you will be reminded of the time you have left with them.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

It’s been said that unforgiveness is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.

When we choose not to forgive, it hurts us, not just the person who has hurt us.

Jesus said a lot about forgiveness in the Bible.

He taught, “If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you.” When Peter asked Jesus how often it is necessary to forgive, he replied, “Seventy times seven,” a number to be taken symbolically, not literally, for the never-ending way we should forgive.

Who do you need to forgive? Perhaps it’s yourself. Do yourself a favor by “letting it go” and teach your boys to do the same.

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever tried putting something together without looking at the instructions?

I heard about a man who did this once with a wagon his son got for Christmas. Unfortunately, he put the wheels on wrong.

Each time he pulled his son in the wagon reminded him that he should have read the instructions first.

Thankfully, God has given us instructions to follow in his word. The Bible is God’s big instruction book.

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.” (2 Timothy 3:16)

As you’re seeking to raise godly boys, continually point them to the wisdom found in God’s owner manual for life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s the first thing you do when you or your child is struggling with something?

Is it to pray?

Prayer should be our first response, not our last resort.

There is power in prayer.

Stormie Omartian (stor·mee ow·maar·tee·uhn) writes this in her book The Power of a Praying Parent:

“When we pray, we bring that power to bear upon everything we are praying about, and we allow the power of God to work through our powerlessness. When we pray, we are humbling ourselves before God and saying, “I need Your presence and Your power, Lord. I can’t do this without You.” When we don’t pray, it’s like saying we have no need of anything outside of ourselves.”

Let’s be “first responders” when it comes to prayer.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When it comes to toilet paper placement, do you prefer the paper to flow over or under the roll? Well, according to recent surveys, around 70% of Americans prefer the toilet paper to roll over the top.

This may not seem like a big deal, but for some people, toilet paper placement causes controversy, chaos, and conflict.

We laugh at such pettiness, but the truth is we often major on the minor things in life. Do you get bent out of shape if your son taps his foot at the table or chews too loudly?

Don’t let tiny annoyances flush your patience down the toilet. By staying focused on what really matters in life, you’ll be on a “roll” in helping your son grow into a godly young man.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you don’t give your son a challenge, he will challenge you.

Julie was frustrated that her teenage son, Tyler, wouldn’t help with any chores around the house. But when Tyler’s dad asked him to repair the fence in the backyard, Tyler jumped at the opportunity. Why?

Boys are uniquely wired to crave adventure. So much so that they often lose motivation when things are too easy or simple. This is why many extremely intelligent children often struggle in school– simply because of boredom.

If your son is being defiant with you, consider giving him an even greater, more complicated responsibility. Bonus points if it involves an outdoor activity!  It may seem counterintuitive, but without a mountain in his life,your son will try to conquer you.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you watched the track and field events at the Summer Olympic Games?

The training that goes into running a marathon is much different than what a runner needs to do to prepare for a 100-yard dash.

Raising godly boys is more like a marathon than a sprint.

Parenting is a lifelong process filled with seemingly insignificant moments.

We must take advantage of every opportunity God gives us, whether it’s the car ride to and from school or tucking them into bed at night.

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you heard of The Greatest Commandment?

It’s found in the Bible in Matthew 22:36-40, where Jesus says: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

These verses can be summed up as “Love God and Love People.”

A foundation for raising godly boys is teaching them to first love God and then show that same love to the people they encounter.

Let’s set an example for our boys to follow by living out The Greatest Commandment.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son play a musical instrument? Maybe the piano, trumpet, or violin?

The process of learning how to play an instrument is a lot like parenting. It requires patience, persistence, and a passion to improve.

During the parenting process, mistakes will inevitably happen. Improper technique may cause squeaky notes. Your instruction may fall flat or be off key. And despite your best efforts, your guidance may not be properly choreographed.

When this happens, don’t get discouraged. Through consistent effort, prayer, and love, you’ll make progress.

By tuning your heart to the rhythm of your son’s personality, you’ll experience the melody of fellowship. And when you and your son are in sync, harmony within the home will crescendo into his growth as a godly young man.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever seen a magician pull a rabbit out of a hat? Maybe you stared in wonder as he made someone suddenly disappear.

Kids think magic tricks are super cool, but performing these illusions requires lots of practice.

As a dad, you might not be a professional magician, but you can still perform magic in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Wrap your arm around your son.
Step 2: With heartfelt meaning, say, “I love you, buddy!”
Step 3: Watch as a smile magically appears on your son’s face.

It’s definitely important to demonstrate your words in action, but never forget those three magical words every boy needs to hear. By telling your son, “I love you,” you remind him how special he really is.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Hola. Bonjour. Konnichiwa. [kon-nee-chee-wah]

You may not know Spanish, French, or Japanese, but make sure you understand your son’s love language.

Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages of Children, lists important ways to show how much you care. The 5 love languages include:
Physical Touch
Words of Affirmation
Quality Time
Gifts
and Acts of Service

By taking time to understand your son’s personality, you’ll be able to strategically connect with him. And by speaking your son’s love language, you show (through action) that you want the very best for him.

Guide your son in becoming a godly man. Learn about a Proven Process that is helping parents accomplish this. For more information, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Your son probably thinks Valentine’s Day is silly. But it’s actually much more important than he realizes.

When your boy sees you buy your wife flowers, or dress up for a date with your husband, you are sending several important messages.

First, you are showing your son that you have a healthy marriage– something that psychologists say is crucial for a child’s well being. Boys who are raised by married parents do better in school and are even more likely to be physically healthier.  Secondly, you are setting a crucial example for your son about relating to women in a respectful and loving way– which will help him in future relationships.

So go ahead– splurge on a gift for your spouse this Valentine’s Day. Loving your spouse is loving your son, too.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is social media hurting your son’s self-esteem?

Social networks often create unreasonable expectations of what a man is. And because of that, boys may look at their flaws and failures and think that they’re not good enough.
 
As a dad, remind your son that even great men from the Bible experienced physical and spiritual weaknesses. Moses stuttered. Jacob was a cheater. Elijah wrestled with depression. And the apostle Peter had a temper. The list could go on and on.

Fortunately, 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Despite our flaws and failures, God sees our potential. In fact, He can take our weaknesses and transform them into something amazing—something beyond our wildest expectations.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

No one wants to think about death, but if you’re a Christian, you know that Christ has conquered the grave. Still, at some point, physical death will separate us from our loved ones. The question is: What kind of legacy will you leave behind. How will your children remember you?

Billy Graham, one of the most widely known evangelists of the 20th century, said, “The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is a legacy of character and faith.”

There’s nothing wrong in being remembered for your work accomplishments or athletic abilities. But, in the end, your kids will most appreciate the time and attention you invested in their lives.

Life is incredibly short. Are you building a legacy of character and faith?

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever asked yourself, “What does God want my son to see that he is not seeing, and how can I help him see it?”

Because sin is deceptive, it can blind your son to the sin in his own heart. Let’s look for chances to be a tool to help him see it.

When you help him see what motivates his desires and actions, you are doing what God has called you to do as a parent.

Parenting is not about getting your son to do the right thing, but helping them to see so that he wants to do the right thing. This type of sightseeing is key to fostering lasting life change in your children.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever found something you thought you had lost forever? How did it feel?

Imagine completing a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle, except for one missing piece. You could look everywhere until you give up hope of ever finding the piece, only to have it turn up when you aren’t looking for it a few weeks later. Imagine how excited you’d be to finally complete the puzzle.

In Luke 15, Jesus talks about several lost things – a lost sheep, a lost coin, and a lost son – that were all found.

I’m thankful that God never gives up on the lost, and we need to do the same with boys who have seemingly lost their way.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that 3,160 tons of water flow over Niagara Falls every second?
 
Like water flows over the Falls, the words and actions of your son flow out of what is in their hearts.
 
To raise godly boys, we need to remember the advice the wisest man who ever lived, King Solomon, gave to his son: “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Proverbs 4:23
 
Your son’s behavior problems are heart problems. Thankfully, Jesus came to give us a new heart. Pay attention to the deeper issues that may be the source of the overflow and steer your son to help from the Lord.
 
Ezekiel 36 says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.”
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Has the grumble monster invaded your home?

You may not see him, but he leaves everyone feeling grouchy and grumpy. These emotions often lead to frustration when life is hard. Perhaps your son struggles in school, or maybe he’s hanging around friends that aren’t a good influence. You wish life didn’t have so many trials and troubles.

During these times, it’s easy to complain. That’s why Philippians 2:14 reminds us to do all things without grumbling.

So, if the grumble monster has invaded your home, fight back with an attitude of gratitude. Compliment your son on an achievement. Praise his determination to work through challenges. When your son sees your example of genuine appreciation, those grumbles will crumble away.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What comes to mind when you hear the words “mercy” and “grace”?
 
Pastor and author Paul Tripp defines mercy as “tenderheartedness and compassion toward someone in need.” John Newton wrote about God’s “Amazing Grace” in his beloved hymn.
 
I like this definition: Mercy is not getting what you deserve. Grace is getting what you don’t deserve.
 
“Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need.” Hebrews 4:16
 
Thank God for his amazing grace and mercy toward us.
 
As we strive to raise godly boys, let’s be quick to practice the same mercy and grace we’ve received.
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When was the last time your plans were suddenly ruined?

Maybe you had organized the perfect family road trip. But then, the day before leaving, one of your kids got really sick.

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. There are countless variables outside our control. But we can control how we react when receiving bad news.

When disappointment strikes, be intentional in teaching your kids an important life lesson. Remind them that nothing is outside God’s knowledge. Even though we often don’t understand why certain things happen, we can know that God’s will, God’s way, and God’s timing are ultimately for our own good and personal growth.

Guide your son in becoming a godly man. Learn about a Proven Process that is helping parents accomplish this. For more information, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What comes to mind when someone mentions a chameleon?

Most people think of the scaly lizard that changes color based on its surroundings. These cold-blooded reptiles blend into their environment by camouflaging their appearance. They can even adapt the brightness of their skin for strategic purposes.

Chameleons are fascinating, but they’re NOT an example of how Christians should act in today’s world. Even though society is often fake and hypocritical, believers should demonstrate genuine behavior.

If you’re a dad, realize that your son is watching you. Are your values, actions, and speech the same at work, on the sports field, and at church?

Don’t be a chameleon. Instead, through consistency of character, show your son how to honor the Lord in each and every area of life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you have a smartphone? If so, in addition to making phone calls and sending text messages, you probably use it to take pictures.

Of course, when kids are young, parents often take thousands of pictures. But as those same kids enter middle school and high school, life becomes so busy that parents sometimes forget to take pictures.

Be intentional in capturing both the big and small moments of life. After your son’s team wins a baseball game, stand next to your son and snap a selfie. Or when you’re on vacation at the beach, have someone take a picture of you and your son in snorkel gear.

Taking a picture takes just a few seconds, but the memory it captures lasts a lifetime.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You glance at the clock. It’s 9:17 a.m.

“Hurry up!” you holler from the kitchen. “Church starts in less than 15 minutes!”

Your kids dash from room to room, grabbing their Bibles, their shoes, and maybe even a Pop-Tart. Then you’re out the door and in the car. Yet despite your best race car driving skills, you’re late to church—again.

Can you relate to this? Do you find yourself constantly late to work, medical appointments, or other activities?

Even though life is busy, make punctuality a priority. Show your son, through action, how to organize his time. Of course, this isn’t easy. But through careful planning, you’ll demonstrate that preparation helps life run more smoothly. Plus, when you’re on time for church, all the back pews aren’t already taken.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you get anxious?
 
Like a fisherman who continually casts his line in search of the big catch, we are called to continually cast our cares and concerns to God.
 
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
 
There are many things for us to be anxious about.. And anxiety among kids is on the rise, affecting nearly one in 10 children. Make sure you are tending to the cares of your kids, and helping them cast their cares on him.
 
We would be wise to remember Jesus’ question — can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Worry won’t change our past or future, but it can ruin the present.
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What is a phobia? It is an irrational fear of something that’s unlikely to cause harm.
 
There are over 400 recognized phobias out there. Ablutophobia is the fear of bathing. This condition seems to be widespread among middle school and high school boys. :o)
 
Fear is a normal human reaction that protects us by signaling danger and preparing us to deal with it. But fear can also be unhealthy and dangerous.
 
The Bible talks about the “fear of man.” This manifests itself when we crave acceptance from our peers and fear rejection. The Bible says that fear of man is a dangerous trap.
 
Don’t let fear rule you and your child’s hearts. Instead, remember that “the Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever woken up from a long night of sleep and still felt tired?
 
According to the Mayo Clinic, the recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult is at least seven hours a night.
 
But even getting enough sleep isn’t enough to be fully rested.
 
As parents, we can quickly become overburdened, overwhelmed, exhausted, discouraged, and restless.
 
Let’s take Jesus up on his invitation in Matthew 11:28-30:
 
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
 
Practice resting in Him. And teach your son to do the same!
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Kids love playdough. They squeeze it and stretch it. They roll it into skinny snakes and smoosh it into wobbly clumps.

As parents, we sometimes feel like playdough. We get squeezed for time and attention. Then we get stretched this way and that way. We feel smooshed and squooshed by the demands of life.

When the routines of parenthood feel overwhelming, realize that you’re not alone. Because you are in God’s hands, He is shaping you into His likeness, forming your character into a useful masterpiece.

Kids make wild and wacky objects with playdough, but in the master Sculptor’s hands, your parenting efforts are being transformed into something beautiful.

So, don’t give up. That squeezing and stretching is just part of the process.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.

Before GPS, did you ever come to a fork in the road and think, “Which way should I go?”
 
Each of us eventually comes to a fork in the road – literally and figuratively – where we will have to decide which way to go.
 
As Christ-followers, we have the perfect navigator in our lives. God knows what’s down each road we travel; nothing surprises him. If we are unsure which way to go, we can look to him, and he will guide us. He will provide for all our needs throughout life’s journeys.
 
Let’s trust the Lord and thank him for the confidence he gives us to travel life’s roads, whether smooth or bumpy.
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever trusted someone who let you down? Most of us have experienced this. Most of us have broken someone’s trust too.

Yet, life requires you to trust others every day, often without thinking twice about it.

The only One who will never let you down and is completely trustworthy is God.

“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people.” Psalm 118:8

You must seek to trust and obey God and teach your son to do the same.

“Heavenly Father, thank you for being trustworthy. Help me to trust in you and follow your commands.”

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

With each step he took, the load felt heavier.

Matthew was on a hike with a group of other boys when he realized his backpack was overloaded. He feared that if he asked for help, the other boys would make fun of him.

Finally, he fell to his knees, and confessed he couldn’t carry his load. To his surprise, the boys took off Matthew’s backpack and distributed the heavy contents equally in their own bags.

In a society where being a boy can feel like a burden, young men need help. Make sure your son has both a father-figure and a group of positive male friends to help him carry his burdens. Your church is a great place to start, or you can search for a local Trail Life USA troop.

For more ideas to raise boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Your son needs a place to be a boy.

In 2018, the Boy Scouts of America announced that they would allow girls to join. One scoutmaster was asked, “How do you like having girls a part of your troop?” The scoutmaster answered, “We love having girls because they are so much better behaved than boys!”

That answer broke my heart. Society already deems boyhood and masculinity as something negative– and now an organization that was supposed to champion boys was also insinuating that boys should act more like girls.

Make sure your son knows that who he really is– whether that’s wild, curious, crazy, or loud– is just fine. After all, God created him that way for a glorious purpose.

To find out about getting your son involved with a boy-centric organization, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Fire is always destructive, right?

Well, not necessarily. The knobcone pine tree relies on fire in a crazy way. In order for its seeds to escape the hard resin that traps them inside the cone, an intense heat source is required.

That’s where a forest fire comes in handy. After fire melts the cone’s resin away, the cone cracks open. Seeds are then free to flutter to the ground where they can grow tall and strong.

As a parent, you want to protect your son. But don’t forget that trials and troubles can help your son grow stronger. By relying on God through challenging situations, your son will learn how to manage the heat and stress of life. And in doing so, he’ll be better prepared for whatever the future may hold. 

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The 4th quarter of a football game is often a nailbiter. Teams battle it out as the minutes tick off the clock. At times, it feels like that 4th quarter will last forever. But then, before you know it, the game is over.

The same is true in parenting. Many boys head off to work or college after high school. That means that if your son is at least 14 years old, then he’s probably in the 4th quarter of his time at home. 

Even if you’ve prepared your son for the future, the 4th quarter is no time to quit. Continue to provide training and instruction. By helping your son love the Lord with all his heart, soul, and mind, he’ll be ready to tackle the challenges of adulthood.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

George Müller—an evangelist who established orphanages in the 1800s—was known for his prayer life. And yet, in addition to his faith in God’s provision, Müller was also a man of action. He wisely said, “Our walk counts far more than our talk, always!”

That’s so true. You may talk to your son about patience, kindness, and self-control, but do your actions demonstrate these characteristics? If a referee makes a bad call, how do you respond? When an elderly neighbor needs help, do you view it as a hassle or an opportunity?

Make sure what you say is backed up by what you do. Consistency in speech and action are a winning combination that your son will want to imitate.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s an easy question: What does www stand for? If you answered, “world wide web,” you're right!

But if you think about it, that phrase is actually quite descriptive of online content.

We all know that the Internet is helpful in many different ways. And yet, it’s also a web that easily entangles boys in temptations. Violence, vulgarity, and sexuality are trapping boys in sin.

Don’t let your son get ensnared by the sticky filth found on the web. As a father, protect your son by using content filtering software. And then, when your son is old enough, have a heart-to-heart talk with him about how to react when the world wide web tries to tempt him.

Through careful instruction, you’ll help your son use technology wisely, without getting trapped.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

See if you can answer this joke: When leaving for work, what did the daddy buffalo say to his son? . . . Bye-son!  [Bison]

Maybe that joke made you groan, but tell it to your son tonight, and you’ll probably get a smile from him—maybe even a laugh.

Dad jokes are corny, but they’re still fun. Of course, you and your son can have fun in a thousand other ways, but the important thing is that you have fun together.

School, sports, and friendships can be stressful. But by creating an atmosphere of encouragement within the home, your son will learn to relax and trust you for guidance and instruction. Plus, when you smile and laugh together, life is a whole lot more fun.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you ever play Capture-the-Flag when you were a kid? If so, you know the object of the game is to capture the opposite team’s flag before getting tagged.

It’s one thing to play Capture-the-Flag, but don’t let today’s secular culture capture your son’s heart and mind. The love of money, the desires of the flesh, and the pride of life are all trying to steal his attention. And if they capture it, they’ll imprison him in bondage and despair.

Teach your son that God provides freedom from sin. And even though we’ll have to combat sin as long as we’re alive, placing God first in our lives will help us overcome temptation. When we allow God to capture our heart, we’ll be victorious in life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you like cold weather? When the temperature dips into single digits, does the frosty air make you shiver?

Regardless of whether or not you like cold weather, make sure your relationship with your son is anything but frosty. At times, your son will annoy you, causing an icy chill to develop between you. When he doesn’t obey your instructions, the bitter cold of irritation may blow in.

Don’t let chilly words or frigid actions freeze the love you feel for your son. Even during challenges and frustrations, love will thaw even the coldest of hearts and bring warmth and life to your relationship.

If you need a little help and encouragement, check out Trail Life USA. They have a bunch of fun and exciting programs that are helping boys grow into godly men. For more information, visit RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Can you point to a scar on your body? Perhaps, as a kid, you cut your arm when falling off your bike, or scraped a leg while climbing a tree.

Some boys think scars are cool because they tell an exciting story. But not all scars are visible.

Emotional scars often hurt more than physical wounds. When correcting your son, what kind of words are you using? Hateful speech can scar a boy’s spirit and enthusiasm. Even a person’s tone of voice can cause deep wounds that may not easily heal.

When correcting your son, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words as you train and instruct. By doing so, you’ll leave your son with valuable lessons instead of invisible scars.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s an interesting parenting twist on the golden rule.

Psychologist Dr. Joshua Straub suggests that, when it comes to your son, you replace the word “treat” with the word “understand.” So the golden rule then becomes “understand your son the way you want to be understood.”

Now, understanding your son may seem like an impossible task– especially if he’s a teenager! But here’s some ideas to start. When your son gets upset over something that seems unimportant to you, instead of saying “there’s nothing to be mad about,” put yourself in your son’s shoes. Most likely, there’s an underlying fear or insecurity behind your son’s anger.

Seek to understand. And in turn, your son may begin to understand your side, as well.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Surfers don’t try to avoid the waves or control them– they learn to glide over them.

In the same way, family psychologist Dr. Joshua Straub has developed three steps to help your son “surf” over his emotions, instead of stuffing them down or using them to hurt others.

First, empathize with your boy’s feelings. Second, address the behavior. Explain the difference between healthy and unhealthy ways to deal with emotions. And third, problem solve together. Help your son come up with coping strategies,  like walking his dog when he feels angry or reading at night when he feels anxious.

Remind your son that emotions are a normal part of life that will ebb and flow. As one professor said, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Johnny dropped his bat to the ground, embarrassed that he had just struck out again. But when he glanced at the crowd and saw his dad give him a reassuring nod and smile, he felt his shoulders relax.

It’s easy as a parent to feel like you’ve “struck out” with your son when you lose patience or make a mistake. When this happens, you may start thinking that you’re a terrible parent, or that you’re destined to repeat the mistakes of your own parents. 

Instead of letting negative thoughts take over, turn to God. Repent. Ask your Heavenly Father for reassurance. And, as Numbers 6:26 says, “may the LORD turn his face towards you and give you peace.”

To learn about the five critical needs your son has as he grows up, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you given your son any “tummy time” today?

“Tummy time” is a fairly new concept in the parenting world, in which parents of infants are encouraged to let their baby spend time on their stomach. Babies often protest and find it very uncomfortable. But without this valuable time, they will not strengthen critical muscles or eventually learn to crawl.

No matter your son’s age, he still needs one small challenge each day. This could be saying his own order at the restaurant, calling the vet to make an appointment for his dog, or completing a puzzle– anything that he would not normally choose to do himself. He may protest and find it uncomfortable, but it will strengthen his resilience muscle and build his self confidence.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s the difference between being a smart parent and an overprotective parent?

It’s a hard balance to strike. But as Christians, we have a secret weapon that we often forget about: Prayer.

Every boy is different, and parenting strategies that work well with one boy can sometimes have disastrous results with another. But the one method that will always work is hitting our knees in prayer, asking God for wisdom, and surrendering our sons’ lives to God.

This doesn’t mean we will become perfect parents– or that we will always make the right decision. But the difference between an overprotective parent and a smart parent is simply parenting not out of fear and control– but out of faith and trust in God.

For encouragement on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

It only takes a small mistake– such as incorrect hip placement– to send a novice rock climber on a painful slide back down the rock wall.

In the same way, there’s a small mistake you can make in disciplining your son that can cause you to lose ground with him: getting too emotional.

It can be difficult to not cry or raise your voice when addressing heavy topics with your boy. But as soon as you show emotion, two things will happen in your son’s brain– he will become distracted, and lose respect for you.

Instead, regulate your own emotions by taking a deep breath, and speak to your son in concise, calm statements. He will listen more closely, and be more likely to respond calmly in turn.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

f you could pick a superpower as a parent, what would it be? The ability to teleport your son to every sports practice instead of making the long drive?

Researchers have found that every parent has a “superpower” of sorts that can improve their relationship with their son, help him avoid perfectionism, and promote emotional health. It’s  simply this: an apology.

There’s no need to make your apology emotional or turn it into a long monologue. But when you know you’ve messed up as a parent, sincerely and concisely tell your son “I’m sorry”.  It will make him respect you more, and pave the way for him to learn the superpower of apologies in his own life.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who does your child really belong to?

I’ll give you a hint: It’s not you.

“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27

God is the creator and owner of everyone and everything. We are called to be his ambassador and steward everyone and everything he’s given to us.

Author Paul Tripp says it’s vital for us to understand that we have no independent, autonomous authority as a parent. God grants us the right and power to exercise authority.

As we strive to raise godly boys, do we have an owner or ambassador mentality?

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that a recurve bow arrow can fly 2.5 times faster than a cheetah can run?
 
This type of arrow can reach speeds of 150 miles per hour, while the world’s fastest cheetah maxes out at about 60 miles per hour.
 
The Bible likens children to arrows.
 
Psalm 127:3-4 says, “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.”
 
As parents, we need to shape and mold these arrows into godly boys and then release them as godly men who will hit the target and make their mark in the world.
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever seen a boy bite into a lemon? If so, his face probably scrunched up into wrinkles because of the super sour taste.

You may have never bitten into a lemon, but in life, we all experience sour moments. Maybe your son loves basketball. But then, while making a simple layup, he sprains his ankle and can’t join the school team.

During times of unexpected frustration, help your son see through the pain and annoyance. Remind him that God is in control. By shifting our focus away from us and toward God, we gain a better perspective of His plan and purpose.

When life becomes sour, stir in the sweet realization that God knows best. By trusting in Him, you’ll transform life’s lemons into lesson-learning lemonade.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What was the best Christmas present you ever received growing up?

Whatever comes to mind, it pales in comparison to the gift mankind received in a manger more than 2,000 years ago.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Amid the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, let’s remember the true reason for the season.

Let’s echo what the angels said on that first Christmas: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

For more information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Nearly 2,000 years ago, an angel appeared to shepherds outside of Bethlehem. That angel declared, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which will be to all people.”

Those “good tidings” are still great news to us today. That news is that Jesus Christ is Lord.

With Christmas in full swing, now is the perfect time to teach your kids that this festive season is about much more than presents. Use caroling to sing about the Gospel message. Or bake some cookies and share them with your neighbors. Write Christmas cards of encouragement to elderly couples in your church.

As you share the Joy of the world with those around you, you teach your kids that Jesus brings help, hope, and healing to a hurting world.

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit TrailLifeUSA.com/savingboys.

When you wrap a present, does the final package look like an explosion of paper—or like a decorative piece of artwork?

No matter what the packaging looks like, don’t get so wrapped up in the busyness of the Christmas season that you forget what’s truly important. 

As we celebrate Christ’s birth, honor Him by being the father God wants you to be. That involves spending time with your son.

Here’s an idea: Push the living room furniture aside and have a wrestling match. Boys LOVE that! Then afterward, share some hot chocolate and a bunch of laughs.

You may not be very good at wrapping Christmas presents, but you can certainly wrap your arms around your son and give him a giant bear hug.

Invest time and attention in your son. Learn about a Proven Process that’s helping boys grow into godly men. Learn more by visiting TrailLifeUSA.com/savingboys.

What’s your favorite tool in your toolbox? A hammer, wrench, screwdriver, or perhaps it’s a power tool like a saw? 

I’ve realized that one of the best things a parent can learn is that you don’t have the power to change your boy. That is something only God can do.

But God does want to use you as a tool to change your boy’s heart and help him understand what it means to be a man.

As you strive to be a model, mentor, and an example of a godly man who is trying to raise a godly boy, God will use you as His change agent.

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What does it take for you to raise a godly boy?

It takes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22 and 23.

If we’re honest with ourselves, we know that none of these characteristics come naturally to us.

But the good news is that God has not asked us to do this in our own strength. He has provided us with a helper, The Holy Spirit.

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” Acts 1:8

Let’s tap into this power source daily as we try to model what true manhood looks like.

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When your kids stress you out, don’t you wish there was a parenting 911 phone number? You know, a phone number you could call for emergency help in dealing with bad attitudes and rebellious behavior.

Although there isn’t a parenting 911 phone number, there’s something even better, faster, and more effective. Whenever the parenting journey feels overwhelming, ask God for help. Jeremiah 33:3 provides a wonderful promise. It says, “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things.”

Before you pull out your hair or text a co-worker for advice, make sure you ask the Lord to guide your thoughts, words, and actions. By remaining calm during parenting emergencies, you’ll experience peace even during those stressful moments of life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s the hardest part of playing baseball?

For most people, it’s timing your swing when a baseball comes flying at you. But when you swing the bat and connect solidly with the ball, you just might earn yourself a home run.
 
As a parent, you want your son to succeed in life. But before he’ll take your guidance and instruction to heart, you first need to connect with him on an emotional level. And that connection doesn’t happen by accident. It takes practice, timing, and a whole lot of patience.

So, when was the last time you spent one-on-one time with your son?

By investing time and attention in him, you’ll create a strong connection that will help him score a home run in life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that your feet contain around a quarter of all the bones in your body?

It’s true! Each foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

From a medical standpoint, feet are amazing. But Romans 10:15 gives a different perspective. The verse says, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace.”

Sharing the gospel message with people is incredibly important. Show your son, through action, how to talk about Jesus. Then, if your son has accepted Christ as his Savior, teach him to share his own testimony. The more you and your son proclaim the gospel to others, the more you honor Christ through your lives.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When out in the woods, accidents happen. A Trailman may sprain his ankle, or someone may brush up against poison ivy.

During these times, a first aid kit comes in handy. But don’t you wish parenting kids came with its own first aid kit?

If it did, it’d definitely include an ice pack to cool high tempers, bandages for wrapping hurt feelings, and ointment to sooth frustration away.

Optional accessories might include aspirin for headache relief during those teenage years, antiseptic wipes to disinfect against worldly influences, and an emergency blanket for needed rest.

Even though you may not have a parenting first aid kit, you can still provide your son consistent comfort and care. A little time and attention goes a long way in healing hurt feelings.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The world is a scary place. Hurricanes pound coastal cities. Riots burn businesses. And in war-torn countries, missiles destroy homes and separate families.

Are your kids scared of what is happening in today’s world? Are TV broadcasts, internet headlines, and YouTube videos making them fear the future?

Don’t let bad news destroy your children’s courage and steal their happiness.

Despite the turmoil around us, use these scary situations to point your kids to Christ. Remind them that in John 14:27, Jesus says, “My peace I give to you.” This verse goes on to say that Christians do not need to be troubled or afraid.

So, even though the world may not find peace, we can experience peace in knowing that God is in control.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When scanning social media, do you find yourself becoming jealous? Do other families seem to have kids that are perfectly behaved, perfectly athletic, or perfectly talented?

It’s easy to see social-media posts and think those snapshots tell the whole story. They often don’t. That’s why it’s important to realize that God made each child uniquely different.

Even though your son may be a little clumsy or a little shy, God values him just as much as anyone else.

Don’t let social media steal your joy and contentment. Rejoice in the fact that your son is a work in progress that you have the privilege of guiding through life.

For help along the parenting journey, Trail Life USA has fun activities that are helping boys grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. For information, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Has your son experienced the death of a pet? What about the loss of a friend or a grandparent?

Death is a hard concept for young kids to understand. But even for children who are older, emotions can quickly spiral out of control. And without proper perspective of what this loss means and how to deal with grief, death’s grip can drag kids into anger, despair, and loneliness.

When death steals a loved one away, take time to answer your son’s questions. Remind him that even Jesus cried when his friend Lazarus died. But God promises to provide comfort and help. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart.”

Even though loss is inevitable, use grief as an opportunity for growth.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Charles Spurgeon, a famous preacher from the 1800s, said, “Let no Christian parents fall into the delusion that Sunday School is intended to ease them of their personal duties.”

While church is a great place for your kids to learn biblical truths, they spend many more hours of the day at home. And it’s there that they should be learning about how Jesus influences all areas of our lives.

So, what kind of example are you providing? Your kids don’t expect perfection, but they want you to be genuine with your faith. If loving the Lord and his Word is a priority for you, your personal example will go a long way in helping your children to also love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and mind.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When building an outdoor shelter, rope comes in handy. But do you know how to tie a square knot? What about a sheet bend knot or a bowline knot.

It takes time, practice, and patience to master these knots—but when you understand their purpose and how to make them, life becomes a little easier and a whole lot more fun.

The same is true in parenting. Raising boys can feel like a rope full of knots. There’s twisting and turning, looping and crossing. And if you rush the formation process, you’ll experience confusion and frustration.

That’s why spending quality time with your son is so important. As you focus on his needs, those knots in the parenting process transform into useful tools that serve important purposes.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do unanswered why questions frustrate you?

Perhaps your teenage son is obnoxiously rebellious. You wonder why God gave you a son that makes parenting so difficult? Or maybe there’s that nagging question about why your son has to suffer with a physical health condition.

Life is filled with questions we don’t know the answers to. But that doesn’t mean we give up or trust God any less.

In Isaiah 55:9, God says, “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways.”

God knows what he is doing even when we don’t understand it. Your responsibility is to exercise faith in his plan and purpose. By trusting in him, you’ll experience peace even during the unanswered why’s of life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done? Perhaps you’ve run a race or climbed a mountain. Those are certainly incredible accomplishments. But forgiving someone can be one of the most difficult things to do.

That’s because forgiveness requires letting go of the hurt, anger, and bitterness you hold deep inside. And when you’ve been wronged by one of your own children, that pain stings even more.

During these times, shift your perspective. Colossians 3:13 is a reminder that you should forgive others because Jesus forgave you.

This doesn’t mean offering forgiveness will ever be easy, but it’ll always be the right thing to do. And when it comes to forgiving your own children, ask God for extra grace and help in time of need.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com

Do you remember the first time your son jumped off the diving board at the local pool?

Before taking the plunge, he probably stood at the edge of the board—his knees wobbly and his face full of fear. Maybe he didn’t want to “jump,” but your cheers and hollers finally prompted him to take that timid step off the board and into the water.

After jumping off the diving board a dozen more times, your son soon learned that the board isn’t as high as it first looked.

Help your son see that the same is true in life. Many of life’s activities appear scary and intimidating. But courage is the ability to see beyond the fear. It’s taking the plunge to achieve a goal that previously looked impossible.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or  RaisingGodlyBoys.com

Does your son understand the connection between cause and effect?

Basically, this is the idea of sowing and reaping, or the idea that actions have consequences.

If your son forgets to take out the trash or clean up his room, show him the results. The trash piles over and stinks. Maybe he steps on a toy and accidently breaks it.

By pointing out the principle of cause and effect in small matters, your son will learn that what he says and does has a direct effect on his life. And your action in teaching him this important truth will have a direct connection in helping him live a life that honors the Lord.

Becoming a godly man doesn’t happen by accident. It takes consistent training. Trail Life USA has a Proven Process that is helping boys grow spiritually. Learn more at RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What’s your favorite sport? Is it basketball? Maybe it’s football? What about track or tennis?

For C. T. Studd, his passion was cricket—a popular game played in England. As a professional cricket player, Studd shocked the sports world when he announced his decision to become a missionary to China.

He later said, “Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.”

What about you? Are you using your life in meaningful ways?

As a parent, one of your most important responsibilities is investing time and attention in your kids. As you guide them in studying the Bible and loving the Lord Jesus, you honor the Lord with your words and actions.

Make today count. Train your kids in the way they should go.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Turkey anyone?

Most Americans celebrate Thanksgiving by enjoying a delicious feast. The menu usually includes things like green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, corn, dinner rolls, and cranberry sauce. 

But the most iconic Thanksgiving food is turkey.

This Thanksgiving, after you’ve gobbled down your meal and two slices of pumpkin pie, don’t be a turkey! Even though you may be tempted to watch football all afternoon, don’t! Instead, take a break to enjoy the outdoors with your son. Toss a ball in the backyard. Go for a bike ride. Or if there’s snow on the ground, build a snow fort.

Use the Thanksgiving season to show your son just how thankful you are for him. As you spend time together, you’ll create new traditions and make wonderful memories.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a quiz question: The day after Thanksgiving is known as what?

If you answered, “Black Friday,” you’re absolutely right. That’s when many stores advertise incredible sales—and people willingly gobble up the savings.

Even though it’s nice to score a bargain, don’t let the commercialization of the holiday season distract you with all its gizmos and gadgets.

In Luke 12:15, Jesus reminds us that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

That’s a tough lesson for boys to understand, especially when other kids flaunt the newest video game system or stylish clothes. But by focusing your son’s attention on Christ and helping him realize that “things” don’t guarantee happiness, the attraction of new, sparkly toys will soon fade away.

Guide your son in becoming a godly man. For more information, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com

Who are your son’s heroes? 

Many boys admire the superheroes they see in movies or the athletes that make crowds jump to their feet in awe and wonder.

It’s one thing for boys to wish they could fly through the air or dunk a basketball. But point out real-life superheroes that make our lives a better place.

People like police officers, firefighters, and military servicemen should be admired because of their selfless service in maintaining law and order and ensuring our safety. 

When you see these men and women around, teach your son to show them respect. Encourage your son to shake hands with them and say thanks for all that they do. By demonstrating your own gratitude, you help your son understand that not all superheroes wear capes.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com

When you ask a boy to do something, and he asks “why?” is your typical response: “Because I said so”?

If we want to raise godly boys, we must try to include the “why” behind the “what.”
As parents or mentors to boys, we should be more concerned with their heart transformation than behavior modification.

The best thing we can do is point boys to Scripture, which provides an unmoving foundation for character to be built upon.

Let’s remember Ephesians 6:4, which says, “Do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.
 

When the national anthem is sung or the pledge of allegiance recited, does your son stand and salute the flag?

Since 1777, the American flag has stood as a powerful symbol of American liberty and justice. The stars and stripes remind us of the sacrifice that many men and women gave so that we can enjoy this land of the free.

Teach your son the meaning of the flag’s colors. White signifies purity and innocence. Red indicates courage. And blue is a sign of perseverance and justice.

Even though the flag is a simple piece of nylon fabric, it represents the history, values, and strength of our great nation. Train your son to stand and salute the flag, and in this way honor our American heritage.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that the human heart beats about 100,000 times a day, and the average heart will beat more than three billion times in its lifetime?

Many of the problems boys face today are heart-related — not physically, but emotionally and spiritually.

The heart of the matter is truly a matter of the heart!

As parents raising godly boys, we need to be careful to guard our hearts and help boys guard theirs.

King Solomon said it best in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Can fear actually be a good thing?

According to the Scriptures, there are two types of fear. The fear of the Lord and the spirit of fear.

Proverbs says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. But in 2 Timothy 1:7 it says God has not given us a spirit of fear.

The fear of the Lord is that voice inside of us that tells us what we’re about to do may cause harm. It’s the feeling you get when you are too close to the edge of a cliff.

The spirit of fear is from the enemy and it breeds confusion, anxiety, and ultimately inaction. It keeps people from being able to step out into what God has called them to do.

Take some time today to teach your son the difference between the fear of the Lord and the spirit of fear.

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

At sea level, water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. But it probably doesn’t take that much heat to make your blood boil. Does your son pretend not to hear you? Is he repeatedly ignoring your instructions? Does he say sarcastic remarks that irritate you?

Parenting boys isn’t easy. The path toward maturity is often steep and bumpy—twisting and turning in unexpected ways. And because boys have a mind of their own, what they think is funny may actually be incredibly rude.

When you feel hot under the collar, take heart. Even though God never promised that the parenting journey would be easy, he promised to provide you help from day to day. And knowing that God is always faithful will help calm and cool your boiling blood.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever been to a circus or zoo where animals perform tricks? Maybe you’ve seen a seal balance a bright red ball on its nose. Or maybe you’ve seen a monkey ride a tiny bicycle.

Training animals takes lots of work and patience. But even more difficult than taming animals is taming the tongue.

James 3:8 says, “But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.”

The tongue gets a lot of people in trouble. That’s why it’s important you train your son to guard his tongue. When he gets frustrated, provide tips on how to calm down. Help him understand that even small words can have big consequences. But also help your son realize that words can bring joy and happiness.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “Grow up. Be a man!”

The rebuke is usually directed toward a boy who is being whiny or acting childish. But being a man involves much more than simply reaching a certain age.

1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”

Becoming a man involves physical, mental, and spiritual growth. All three aspects are necessary in achieving a balanced lifestyle that honors the Lord.

So, how are you doing in helping your son in these areas?

Guide your son in becoming a godly man. Learn about a Proven Process that is helping parents accomplish this. For more information, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How about creating a regular meeting time with your son?

For years, every weekday morning, Pastor John Tyson and his son Nate would get up and do a devotional together. They called it their early morning meetings– and Tyson says it blessed both of them immensely.

You can adopt this practice with your own boy. Use your morning drive time to listen and discuss a Bible passage together.  Or, choose a devotional book, and read it together each night before your son goes to bed.

Your son may not talk much during these meetings, especially at first. But I can promise you that God will bless your time together. All you have to do is show up.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ever wonder if your discipline and teaching is really resonating with your son? 

Mandy, the mom of a defiant 2-year-old, had been diligently trying to teach her son to clean with a broom and dustpan. But even after lots of repetition, he didn’t seem to be learning it at all. One night, during a temper tantrum, her son threw food on the floor. Mandy couldn’t believe it when her son got a broom and dustpan and cleaned up his own mess. 

Parenting your son is really just teaching him the same lesson hundreds– if not thousands– of times. It may seem like your boy isn’t getting it. But don’t lose heart. As Galatians 6:9 says, “you will be rewarded…if you don’t give up.” 

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Your son can learn from your inconveniences.

Jack and his son were driving to football practice when they got a flat tire. By the time they had put on the spare, driven to the mechanic, and replaced the tire, Jack’s son had completely missed his practice. Jack felt bad– but he was grateful his son now knew how to handle a flat tire. 

When you experience things like car trouble or house maintenance issues– make sure your son observes how you handle them. More than just learning the practical skills, he needs to see how you handle the challenges of life. So next time you experience an inconvenience– remember your son is learning from your every move. 

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You don’t have to get it perfect. But you do have to get it right. 

Raising a son can be one of the hardest experiences of your life. And it’s very easy to focus on all the ways you fall short. Although God never commands you to be a perfect parent– He does give some guidelines.

Ephesians says not to provoke your son. Proverbs reminds you to be diligent in discipline. Deuteronomy encourages you to regularly discuss Scripture with your boy. And of course, we should also pay close attention to the verses about doing all things with love and a gentle spirit.

On the days when you mess up, ask God for grace, ask your son for forgiveness, and keep moving forward. God will give you what you need.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you raising a “man–ager”? 

Pastor Jon Tyson coined this phrase, which describes a man who is physically an adult but still living like a child– playing video games all night, living with his parents, and not pursuing higher education or a stable career. 

Pastor Tyson says that one of the biggest things that separate a boy from a man is the confidence to pursue hard things in life. 

As your son grows up, be sure to allow him to face difficulties, even in situations when you could easily solve the situation yourself. Your goal is not to give your son an easy, pain-free life– but to give him the skills and confidence he needs to do difficult, worthwhile things, and contribute to society and God’s greater kingdom. 

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“What if you could be a better husband, father, and man without the use of your legs or hands?”

That was the question that Chad Hymas [hi-miss]’s father asked him,  as Chad lay in a hospital bed. He had suddenly become a quadriplegic after a farming accident. His dad’s words sparked the hope that Chad needed– and today, years later, he is a devoted husband and dad and an inspiring speaker– despite his physical disabilities. 

Everyone has limitations– your son included. As parents, it’s important that we help our sons identify and face those limitations head-on, as Chad’s dad did.  Remind him that being perfect is not God’s call for his life. He can glorify God, not in spite of– but because of and through– his own weaknesses. 

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Why are young boys seemingly always dirty?  

As a father who has had young boys, it’s nearly impossible to keep them clean. But when it comes to spiritual things, how can we help our boys stay pure from the pull of this evil culture we live in? 

Psalm 119:9 says, How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your Word. The Word of God will be the light for the path of your son. Living the Word and following the instructions God gives in His Word will preserve and protect your son. 

The Bible also declares in Isaiah 55:11 that God’s Word does not return void. Every time to speak the Word, pray the Word, or have your son learn the Word, you are putting into motion God’s will for your child. His Word will not come back empty. 

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What is a father’s most important role? 

Is it providing? Is it Protecting, or teaching? I believe the most important role of a father is affirmation.

The word affirm means to state as fact. As fathers, we are to declare to our children, especially our boys who they are and who God says they are. You can provide everything for your son and even teach him great things, but if you never tell him he is valuable and has a purpose, there will be a deficit in his life.

The father of lies that Jesus refers to in John 8 has been lying from the beginning. As fathers, we can dispel those lies with truth.

Take time today to tell your son who he is and how special he is to you. Tell him you are proud of him and that you love him. Affirm him!

For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Why are boys so wild and crazy?

If you’re a mom of boys but you never grew up with boys you may wonder why they act the way they do. Why they like to climb trees and wrestle. While they take sticks off the ground and act like they are guns. Why they are constantly dirty.

The fact is boys and girls are very different. God made boys to be adventurous and risktakers by nature. They like to explore and be wild.

Our culture has invented a term called toxic masculinity. This term seems to suppress the wild adventurous nature of men and boys.

We need to teach our boys right from wrong and the truth of God‘s word, but we need to let them be boys. Let them be wild and crazy, they’re boys!

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com

How are your arrows doing?

Psalm 127:4 says that children are like arrows in the hands of a warrior.

Nowadays, we can drive down to the local sporting goods store and pick up a package of fiberglass arrows. These arrows are used for sport and are almost always retrieved after being shot.

In Bible times, the warrior’s arrows most likely were built by him. The warrior knew that the battle would be lost if he did not prepare. Preparing for battle takes a lot of time and hard work.

It is not easy, but it is worth it. Your children are your arrows. The time that you have them in your care is a precious time to prepare them for battle. It takes hard work!

Take time today to see your boys as arrows that will be used in battle by the Lord to defeat the enemy.

For more parenting advice and information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you seen the video of the football player who ran the wrong way?

I heard about a man who is coaching his 6-year-old son’s flag football team.

He told me his biggest challenge is getting the players to head in the right direction when they get the ball.

Often their first instinct is to head toward the wrong end zone.
Boys today are missing the moral compass needed when they leave the playing field and enter the game of life.

Fifty-eight percent of Americans no longer believe that God and the Bible are the means for determining morality and truth.

As father figures and mentors, we need to point boys to the truth of God’s Word – the Bible.

For more information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Parent the boy in front of you.

Books, websites, and friends can be great sources of wisdom for parenting advice. But as you’re listening to others, don’t forget this profound truth– there is no one else on earth who is exactly like your son.

You have been hand selected by God to be your son’s parent. That means there is no one else– no, not even that parenting expert with several degrees– who is better equipped to be the mom or dad your boy needs.

So yes, by all means, seek out Biblically sound parenting advice.  But don’t forget to also spend time in prayer, asking God to give you the specific wisdom you need to make that advice work in the best way for your uniquely created son.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is it more difficult to be a teenaged boy, or a grown adult?

Adult life is stressful. Of course, you have more responsibility than your teen son. But consider this– you also have more freedom, more balanced hormones, and a fully developed brain. Parenting experts say that some of the hardest, most chaotic years of life are between ages 13-18, especially for young men.

Here’s the point. It’s true that your son needs discipline and authority. But don’t forget that what he needs first is love. It’s not easy being a teenage boy, especially in our current society. So the next time you are frustrated with your son, picture yourself at that age. Show him the grace and understanding you so desperately needed back then.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com

Have you had to wait for something recently, or are you still waiting?
 
With seven games left in the 2022 Major League Baseball regular season, New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge tied Roger Maris for the American League single-season home run record.
 
With the world watching, Judge had to wait for five more games before finally breaking the record in the next-to-last game.
 
Psalm 27:14 tells us to “wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage.”
 
Waiting on the Lord doesn’t mean we don’t have our part to play. Waiting on the Lord is active. It’s preparing our hearts, being ready to serve, and expecting God to provide.
 
“And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.”
 
For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What poisonous plant is easily identified by its “leaves of three”?

If you said poison ivy, you’re right! When you see its “leaves of three,” you immediately step back. That’s because nobody wants red, itchy skin covered in bumps and blisters.

In the great outdoors, it’s important to teach your son the hazards of poison ivy, but it’s even more important to teach him the hazards of sensuality. Today’s secular culture sexualizes women in movies, magazines, and the internet. For boys who want to guard their thoughts and do right, it’s a tough world out there.

Philippians 4:8 is an excellent reminder to point your son to that which is true, pure, and virtuous. In doing so, you’ll guide him away from the hazardous poisons that cause terrible pain.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever heard the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”?

Kids sometimes use the rhyming words as a comeback against insults. But the rhyme couldn’t be further from the truth.

Words do impact our thoughts and actions. That’s why 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to “encourage one another and build one another up.”

When was the last time you wrapped an arm around your son and told him how proud you were of him? Or when did you last compliment him on a skill, talent, or accomplishment?

We all need encouragement in life. Set the example by using genuine words to build up your son. Those words may impact him more than you’ll ever know.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you have a junk drawer at home? You know, a drawer where you keep odds and ends like buttons, batteries, and blue highlighters.

Even though small knick-knacks can seem like junk, those tiny objects suddenly become super important when you need them.

The same is true in life. At some point, your son may fail a test at school or miss a crucial pass at a football game. That’s when something as small as an encouraging word or a comforting hug becomes a big deal. Those small actions take just a few seconds, but their effect may last for days or even weeks.

So remember, even though an object or action may seem small, it can still hold super-sized value.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When was the last time you looked up at the moon? It’s usually there in the night sky, but we don’t always pay attention to it.

And yet, the waxing and waning of moon phases is an important reminder that time is continually passing.

It’s one thing to ignore the moon, but whatever you do, don’t ignore your son. No matter how busy life becomes, remember to appreciate phases of growth in your son. Whether he’s an infant, toddler, preschooler, or teenager, enjoy each season of development. By intentionally investing your time and talents into your son, you’ll discover the joy of parenthood.

For a little extra help along that parenting journey, Trail Life USA has fun activities that are helping boys grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. Learn about their nation-wide programs at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Okay, let’s get serious for a moment. The fact is … belly buttons look kind of funny! Some stick out like a small marble. Others curve inward like a deep cave. Some are smooth—others super wrinkly.

No matter what your belly button looks like, it’s a reminder of how your mother nourished you through an umbilical cord while inside the womb.

As a dad, you weren’t joined to your son through an umbilical cord, but you still play a vital role in nurturing him physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

So how are you doing with this God-given responsibility? Are you helping your son grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus?

Becoming a godly man doesn’t happen by accident. It takes consistent training. Trail Life USA has a Proven Process that is helping boys grow spiritually. Learn more at RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you remember learning to ride a bike? For kids, it’s a BIG deal. But learning to ride a bike takes time—maybe even a few falls and scraped knees.

Perhaps you remember holding onto your son’s bike as he pedaled down the sidewalk. But little by little, you carefully released your grip. At first, just for a second. Then, as your son developed confidence, you let go entirely.

At that point, your son’s smile probably stretched from ear to ear. He’ll never forget that victorious moment—or the fact that you were there beside him, helping him along the way.

Regardless of what stage of life your son is in, learn to carefully release your grip so that your son can ride confidently into the future.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Imagine this.

At a garage sale, you wipe the dust off an old genie lamp. Smoke pours out, then poof! A genie stands in front of you. He says, “You freed me from the bottle—I grant you one wish.”

You’re thrilled, but what will you ask for? A work promotion? A sports car? Tickets to the Superbowl?

In 1 Kings chapter 3, King Solomon asked the Lord for wisdom and discernment. And God granted his desire.

As a parent, make sure you also prioritize wisdom. You can do this by taking a few minutes each day to read a chapter of Proverbs with your son. Not only will you grow together in wisdom, but your son will see that the true source of all knowledge comes from God alone.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you ever make a mud pie?

Maybe your son has. That’s where you mix water and dirt into a thick, gooey mixture. Then after slapping the mud into a hamburger-sized patty you decorate it with twigs and pebbles.

Boys still like getting dirty in the backyard. But at some point, it’s time to clean up.

As a parent, teach your son that there’s a time to be messy and dirty, but also a time to wash up and clean up. Be intentional in helping your son know how to bathe, brush his teeth, and comb his hair. Don’t just pick up his toys and dirty clothes, teach him to clean up after himself.

Through consistent instruction, you prepare your son to face daily activities with a clean slate and a clear conscience.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you have unreasonable expectations?

As a parent, you love your son and want him to succeed at everything he does. You want him to earn the highest grades in class, score the most points at the game, and have the greatest artistic talent.

But unreasonable expectations can cause frustration—for both you and your son.

Even though it’s fine to motivate your son to achieve success, be careful that your high expectations don’t cause him to become discouraged, angry, and resentful. Ask the Lord to guide you in knowing how to motivate your son. Then, as long as your son is trying his best, be satisfied with the results.

For help and encouragement along the parenting journey, check out Trail Life USA. We have fun and exciting programs that are helping boys grow into godly men. For more information, visit RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you’re a mom or dad, you’ve probably lost your patience a time or two—or, more likely, dozens of times. That’s because training kids to get along with their siblings and behave appropriately takes lots of time and attention. It’s easy to grow frustrated at having to provide correction for the billionth time.

Even though frustration is a natural human emotion, losing your temper is never right. If, in a moment of anger, you did something or said something that wasn’t God-honoring . . . apologize. Saying sorry is incredibly hard, but your example will teach your son an important lesson about humility and forgiveness.

And get this: When you apologize, your son will actually grow in his love and respect for you.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you ever use the smiley emoji while texting?

That emoji helped launch World Smile Day, which is celebrated the first Friday in October. On that day, people are encouraged to smile at people around them.

Fortunately, you don’t need an official holiday to smile. It’s something you can do every day. Of course, life doesn’t always run smoothly. Health issues, work conflicts, and financial concerns may catch you off guard. Or perhaps your son discourages a smile from you because he doesn’t like the rules you’ve set in place for his own good.

Despite life’s challenges, a simple smile can keep matters in proper perspective. Not only will a smile help lower your stress level, but it’ll also show your son that God’s grace provides lasting peace. And that’s certainly something you can smile about.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You know that irritating song, “The wheels on the bus go round and round”?

Well, sometimes, the routines of parenting also feel like they just keep rolling along, day after day.

Wake up—get the kids ready for school—make breakfast—drive to work—finish work—help the kids with homework—and so on and so forth.

When the routines of life feel repetitive, introduce new ways to keep boredom at bay. In the car, play trivia games together. At the dinner table, tell funny stories about your childhood. Before bedtime, listen to an audiobook.

Even though life continues day after day, find ways to make the ordinary become extraordinary. Not only will this make life more fun for your kiddos, but for you as well.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What is more effective– lecturing, or listening?

Cara decided that her son won’t be allowed to have a TikTok account. Annoyed, he told her, “I’m the only kid in my class who doesn’t have one. Why don’t you let me have one?” Cara paused. “Well, why do you think I have this rule?”

“Well,” her son said. “I’ve heard about the TikTok challenges that are dangerous or illegal. So I guess I understand that part.”

Listening to her son’s points, instead of lecturing, led to a healthy discussion. Cara’s boy still wasn’t sure he agreed, but by the end of the talk he did understand the reasoning a little more. Plus, his critical thinking skills got a workout!

For more ideas for raising your son to be a godly man,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What should you do if your son wants to quit?

Sam asked his dad if he could quit playing the cello. Sam’s dad was surprised since Sam had always loved playing, but was discouraged because none of his friends shared that passion. Instead of allowing him to quit, Sam’s dad encouraged him to keep playing, and he helped his son find some local music groups to play in.

Years later, as Sam accepted a music scholarship to a university, he turned to his dad. “Thank you for not letting me give up.”

Extracurriculars are something you’ll have to prayerfully consider as a parent. But if your son wants to quit something you know he usually enjoys, try helping him find a new side to his existing hobby. You’ll never regret encouraging him to persevere.

For ideas for raising your son to be a godly man,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you like it when seasons change?

If you’re a parent, you know what it’s like to be exhausted. That’s because each season of your son’s life requires huge amounts of time and energy.

You may feel like your baby will never sleep through the night, or your toddler will never get potty trained, or your teenager will never stop testing your patience.

When you feel overwhelmed, take heart. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything there is a season.”

There’s a season for learning how to ride a bike, for applying Band-aids, for starting school, for sports, and for so many other activities.

Take each season as it comes. By realizing that each stage of life will soon pass, you can focus on the joys of that season instead of its challenges.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What developmental stage is your son in?

David Thomas, a family therapist, has divided a boy’s life into five stages.

Until age four, boys are in the “explorer” phase. When they turn five, they enter the “lover” stage. The third stage for our sons  is ages nine through twelve– the “individual.” Next is stage four, the “wanderer.” And finally, there’s the “warrior” phrase– between age eighteen into the mid twenties.

When we as parents understand the phases our son is going through, it helps us develop realistic expectations for him. We also can give our son some grace. Remember that growing up can be difficult, and what he always needs most is a generous heap of love.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys at any stage of life, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you disciplining your son, or are you naming him?

Many parents are guilty of using phrases like this with our son: “You are so messy” or “You are so disrespectful to me.” But family therapist David Thomas reminds us that, to our boy, it may sound like we are “naming” him. And hearing those phrases can lead a boy to believe that he is simply a messy or disrespectful person.

Instead, David suggests reframing the situation by saying: “Son, I’ve noticed you’re stuck in a pattern of disrespect.” That way, it’s possible to address the negative behaviors, but we aren’t accidentally giving our son a “name” he may attach to his identity. He may behave badly, but his behavior doesn’t define who he is.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ever strike a match?

A single match—or even a single spark from flint and steel—can start a fire. And if provided with enough fuel, that small fire can quickly grow into a large and powerful force.

The same can be said for words. A simple word of encouragement could be the spark that encourages your son to accomplish incredible things.

If your son is struggling with school or sports or social activities, give him some tips and pointers in a kind and patient way. Then, when you see progress, say, “Awesome job,” and give him a high five.

That simple act of encouragement could be the spark that prompts your son to strive for even greater success. It’s amazing how small words of affirmation can lead to big results.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Stuck in traffic? Use the time to teach your son a valuable lesson.

David felt his blood pressure rising one day while driving. He said to his son, “I’m getting really frustrated. How about we turn on some music so I can think about something else?” 

A few days later, David’s son was working on some math homework. He looked at his dad and said, “Dad, I’m getting really frustrated with this homework. Can we turn on some music so I can think about something else?”

Our kids learn so much from observing our behavior. If you want to raise a son who knows how to regulate his emotions, the best thing you can do is model healthy ways to deal with frustration– even with small things, like traffic.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

He was told he’d never walk… but God had other plans.

When Glenn Cunningham was eight, his legs were burned badly in an accident. Doctors suggested amputation, but his parents didn’t allow it. Against all odds, Glenn started walking again, and eventually, running. Years later, Glenn broke the world record mile time, giving all the glory to God.

Just like Glenn’s experience, the world will put limits on our son’s hopes, dreams, and abilities. If your boy expresses an interest in a challenging or nontraditional career, such as a musician, artist, or actor, pray about it together and encourage him to pursue his passions. Through Christ, he truly can live out Glenn’s life verse–”Those who wait on the Lord…will run and not grow weary.”

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Want to give your son a boost of confidence? Try this.

Let him plan a fun activity for your family. This could be a day or weekend trip to a zoo, a baseball game, a water park, or a concert. Give him a budget, and help him research buying tickets, planning meals, and booking a hotel.

While on the trip, stay back and let your son take the lead with things like talking to the person at the ticket counter. When you return home, sit down with your son and evaluate the experience together, giving both positive feedback and constructive criticism. Your son will gain valuable skills, be challenged, and overall, get a boost of confidence that you’d trust him with such a big privilege.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son need his grandparents?

It’s true that there are many children who are raised without their grandparents who do just fine. But child development researchers have found that children who feel relationally close to a grandparent tend to show higher levels of kindness, better school performance, and a better attention span.

Of course, many times grandparent relationships can be complicated, and even full of hurt. If your relationship with your parents,or your spouses’ parents, is estranged, prayerfully consider reengaging. Working through conflict and showing forgiveness will not only be beneficial to you, but will also set an excellent example for your son. Everyone– you, your parents, and your son– will benefit from your son getting some quality grandparent time.

To learn more about raising your son to be a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you trying too hard with your son?

It’s been a long day, and you and your son are raking leaves. It’s rare that you have one-on-one time with your boy, so you feel pressure to start a conversation about something important– like grades, or friends, or God.

But fellow parent, the pressure is off. Just doing simple tasks together like yard work, building model airplanes, working on an old car, or riding bikes can be incredibly meaningful– not because of the words you say, but because of the time spent together.

Because it’s in those moments that your son not only feels your love– he realizes that you may even like him for who he is.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who will your son be in ten years?

In day-to-day parenting, it’s easy to get caught up in how our sons are acting today. Today, your son will throw a tantrum when you don’t let him buy a toy at the store. Today, he might not seem to pay attention when you read the Bible with him. Today, he’ll roll his eyes when you remind him to practice his violin.

But fellow parent– take heart. Your son will grow up. And when he does, he will begin to see that all along, although you took the time to guide him, you cared more about who he was than what he did. Today, ask God for the perspective you need to parent your boy for who he will be in the years to come.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What if you let your son be the expert?

Your boy is surrounded by adults telling him what to do– buckle his seatbelt, pay attention in class, and be nice to his sister. While this guidance is necessary, it can be frustrating for him. So what if you took some time to let him teach you something?

If he’s little, let him take the lead when playing toy trucks. If he’s into video games, grab a controller and ask for a tutorial. You can even compliment him on something simple– such as the way he loads the dishwasher– and have him teach the skill to a younger sibling.

Your son will be delighted to share his expertise.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you praising your boy’s effort, or his outcomes?

When Mitchell achieved something, such as winning a soccer game, or a high score on a test, his parents expressed a lot of excitement, lavishing praise on him. Inside, Mitchell began to ask himself, what if I didn’t win or get a good grade? Would my parents still love me?

What about you? Do you praise your son more for his good results than you do for a good effort or a great attitude?

Make a point to compliment him by saying things like “I noticed how you passed the ball at just the right moment.” This will help give your son confidence that he can focus on the things he can control, and surrender the results to God.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

There is a catch-22 of every boy’s life.

He craves independence and freedom. But he also still wants and needs the attention and approval of his parents. 

Be sure to set aside some time each week for intentional time with your boy.  Invite him on a hike or a fishing trip. Take him along when you need to go pick up something from work. Ask him to help you with a task, like staining the back deck.

This isn’t the time to pester your son with questions, or lecture him about behavior changes. Allow for comfortable silence, and just enjoy time together.

Your son may not seem like he appreciates it. But I guarantee you are making a memory with him– no catch-22 about it.

For learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who’s your favorite superhero?

Boys love superhero movies—especially when characters like Superman and Thor travel to earth from distant space, fight the bad guys, and save humans from total annihilation.

These films capture our attention, but it’s important to remember that they’re fictional. If your son wants to talk about superheroes, mention the greatest superhero of all. Not only is Jesus all-powerful and all-knowing, but he also loves us beyond comprehension. That’s why He paid the punishment for our sin on the cross. And because He conquered death, He now offers us new life.

Superhero movies provide entertainment, but Jesus provides eternal life. Has your son accepted that free gift of salvation? If not, take time today to explain the Gospel message. It’s a message that’s more extraordinary than any blockbuster movie.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Time is a curious thing.

You wish you had more time to enjoy life, but there never seems to be enough spare time to have a good time. That’s because time flies.

You rush to work, arriving just in the nick of time. Or when at the grocery store, you grumble because you’re losing time.

In the race to make the most of your time, don’t forget what’s truly important. Spend quality time with your son. He’s growing up super fast. Don’t squander your time by wasting time on less important things.

Remember, you can’t turn back the hands of time, so use it wisely.

Well, looks like we’re out of time. So visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com to learn about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men.

The tyranny of the checkout line.

If you’re a parent, you probably cringe whenever you have to wait in line at the grocery store. That’s because young kids see the checkout aisle as a carnival of fun.

“Dad, can I have a candy bar?”

“Not today.”

“What about this racecar?”

“No. Put that back.”

“Why not?”

“Because I said so!”

It’s easy to grow frustrated when kids whine for stuff at the store. But use the occasion to teach your son important lessons about financial responsibility. There are many ways to accomplish this, but the ultimate goal is to help your son understand how to manage money and be a good steward of what God has given you.

By training your son in the way he should go, even pennies begin making “sense.”

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ready for some stats?

Statistics indicate that most people live at least 75 years. That life expectancy equals 900 months or 27,394 days.

But statistics are only an average. Some people live longer. Others shorter. Even though this is a sobering thought, Psalm 90:12 reminds us, “to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

When we understand that life is short and unpredictable, we shift our focus from the temporary to the eternal. And in doing so, we recognize the God-given responsibility of training our sons to become godly men.

Even though parenting is filled with challenges, be intentional in using your days wisely. As you commit yourself to this vital task, the Lord will provide you strength from day to day.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Coffee’s on!

It’s Saturday morning. You had hoped to get some extra sleep, but your kids are already running around the house. As you drag yourself out of bed and pour yourself a cup of coffee, take a moment to consider this COFFEE acronym:

C stands for Christ. Draw closer to him!
O stands for opportunity. Parenting is a privilege, even when it tests your patience.
F stands for faith. Keep Christ first in all that you do.
F also stands for family. Stick by each other through thick and thin.
E stands for eternity. Teach your kiddos to set their affections on things above.
E also stands for energy. Trust God to provide you strength to keep on keeping on.

Now take a sip. Ahhh. Isn’t that good?

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How strong is your son?

When boys reach middle school, many of them take a sudden interest in how strong they are. They like to do things like arm wrestle with their dads or compete in push-up contests. Some boys even begin lifting weights to bulk up.

Strength training is a great way for boys to build muscle and endurance, but boys aren’t the only ones who need exercise.

As a dad, are you exercising your parenting skills? Are you intentionally strengthening your communication abilities? Guiding your son in becoming a godly man isn’t easy. That’s why it’s vital to study God’s Word for instruction. It’s also helpful to use trusted resources to point you to Christ.

By building up your parenting abilities, your relationship with your son will soon be stronger than ever.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Where’s your WD-40?

When a door hinge squeaks or a bike chain becomes rusty, what do you spray on it? Probably WD-40. The spray lubricant works so well that around 80% of American households have a can somewhere in their garage.

But WD-40 wasn’t easy to create. Engineers developed dozens of mixtures until formula number 40 proved just right.

As parents, WD-40 helps us remember that good things take time to develop. It’s easy to grow frustrated when our sons don’t mature as quickly as we’d like. Maybe they squeak out excuses or are rusty at basic life skills.

Even though physical, mental, and spiritual growth takes time, God is faithful. Philippians 1:6 reminds us that “he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.”

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Shortcuts. We all kind of like them.

As you drive around town, do you ever take a shortcut? Maybe there’s a light that stays red too long. Or perhaps a street that’s always packed with cars. In these cases, we like shortcuts that save us time and frustration.

That’s fine for driving, but in the parenting journey, there are no shortcuts. The process of training your son to become a godly man can’t be rushed. You may wish your son learned a skill faster or matured more quickly, but becoming annoyed won’t help. Instead, through patience and persistence, you can raise your son to love the Lord with all his heart, soul, and mind.

Becoming a godly man doesn’t happen by accident. It takes consistent training. Trail Life USA has a Proven Process that is helping boys grow spiritually. Learn more at RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Music to your ears?

Ludwig van Beethoven is recognized as one of the greatest composers of all time. But did you know that he wrote five sonatas and his famous Ninth Symphony while completely deaf?

The secret to his success was his passion for music. That and a whole bunch of hard work and dedication.

As parents, we may not have the musical genius of Beethoven, but we can still create wonderful harmony within our homes. Begin by providing your son a consistent tempo of training, and a steady melody of encouragement. Add to that an upbeat rhythm of physical fun, and the vibrato of adventure.

The resulting chords of growth will prepare your son to perform his own creative solo. And in doing this, his life will be a lasting crescendo that brings glory to God.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Got a minute?

Each day contains 1,440 minutes. That sounds like a huge number, but those minutes are quickly used up. On average, we sleep 408 minutes, work 500 minutes, and eat for 67 minutes each day. Getting ready in the morning, driving across town, and running errands devours even more time.

This leaves only a few hundred minutes available for actual free time. The question is: How are you spending those free minutes? If you’re like ordinary people, you spend it watching TV or surfing social media.

But instead of being ordinary, be extraordinary by investing your spare minutes into your kids. Take them camping. Ride bikes. Go bowling. The minutes you spend with your kids are quickly transformed into memories that last a lifetime.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is it time to focus?

If you have a magnifying glass, take it outside on a bright sunny day. Show your son how to raise or lower the lens until a beam of light focuses on a single point. With a steady hand and a little patience, that concentrated light becomes so intense that it can catch dry grass on fire.

Use this activity as an object lesson. Remind your son that if life ever becomes so busy that it begins crowding out his time with the Lord, he needs to refocus his attention. Sports and hobbies are a blast, but they should never consume all his energy.

By training your son to put the Lord first in all that he does, he will develop an intensity for life that will magnify God.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you have a security camera?

Around 1 million American homes are burglarized every year. That’s why home video-camera systems are more popular than ever.

But wouldn’t it be great if you could as easily monitor your son’s activities when he’s away from home? That way you could make sure he isn’t being harassed by school bullies—or tempted to do wrong when hanging out with his buddies.

Even though you can’t monitor your kids 24/7, you can do something more effective. You can pray! Ask God to guard your son’s heart and mind as he sails through the treacherous waters of today’s culture. Ask God to help him stand for truth even when it isn’t easy.

Of course, providing your son training and instruction is also essential, but never forget the importance of prayer.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Scared much?

The command to “fear not” is repeated throughout the Bible. Not just occasionally, but a total of around 150 times.

The repetition seems overblown, but God knew we needed the reminder. This is especially true when we consider the many secular influences that are trying to conquer the hearts and minds of our sons.

The war on gender, the ridicule of biblical teaching, the erosion of traditional values—the list goes on and on.

When the sinful ugliness of today’s world attacks your son, teach him to stand strong on the solid Word of God. By being an example to your son in word and deed, you can help him not only survive, but also thrive as he grows into a godly young man.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Detour ahead!

As you drive down the highway, you’ll encounter many road signs. But one of the most annoying is the detour.

When our plans of traveling to our destination are hindered, we grow frustrated by the delay and inconvenience.

But detours don’t only happen on the highway. The parenting journey also has them. Perhaps you love football, but your son doesn’t. Maybe he likes to read, but you’d rather wrestle with him.

Whatever the detour to your original plans and expectations, take comfort in knowing that God is in control. That detour that you find so annoying and frustrating may be the very thing God uses to accomplish his will in the future. Above all, trust God’s guidance even when you cannot see where life’s road is taking you or your son.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How do you talk to your son?

When Cynthia’s son was little, she frequently called him pet names, like “Bubs.” One day, when her son was twelve, he said “Please don’t call me that anymore.” Cynthia was surprised, but then later, she understood. Her son was becoming a man, and wanted to be treated as such.

Follow Cynthia’s lead– when your son becomes a preteen, drop any childlike nicknames and begin to refer to him as a young man, not a boy.

Pediatrician Dr. Meg Meeker also suggests using phrases such as “I like the way you think” and “You sure are a good brother.” Affirm who your son is, rather than what he does, and you will build him up even more than you realize.

For more ideas for raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a parenting strategy to try with your son…try the “walk and talk.”

When you need to address a behavior or share some difficult news, it can be tempting to lecture your son. But if you sit him down, look him in the eye, and start talking, your boy will probably avert his eyes and lose focus.

Try this instead. Lace up your walking shoes, put the dog on its lead, and take your son for a long walk around your neighborhood. As you walk, calmly talk, with short and to-the-point sentences.

Psychologists have found that while women prefer face-to-face interaction, men actually listen much more effectively when they are doing a shoulder-to-shoulder activity.

So skip the lecture, and head outside. Your son will thank you.

For more ideas for raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son have a gremlin?

An author named Rick Carson created a metaphor out of the destructive creatures from the popular 80s movie. He suggests that negative thoughts are like gremlins– destroying our self esteem.

With the rates of depression continuing to rise for young men today, it’s safe to assume that our sons struggle with their own thought-gremlins. So what can we do to help them “tame the beast,” so to speak?

Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that, “as someone thinks within himself, so he is.”  First, model positive self-talk.  When you mess up, instead of saying, “I am dumb,” say, “I need to work on that.” And memorize scripture with your son that reminds him of his identity in Christ. Jeremiah 1:5 is a great place to start.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does your son need you?

When Christina’s son turned 12, he stopped talking and sharing things with her and, instead, went to his dad for advice. Christina wondered if she would ever feel close to her son again.

But moms like Christina don’t need to worry. This separation is not only common, but necessary. Teen boys focus all of their energies on watching their dad, or dad-like figures in their life, in order to see what it truly means to be a man.

If that healthy detachment from mom is successful, young men are very likely to return to their moms in young adulthood and re-establish a great relationship.

So moms, don’t be afraid to let go.  In the teen years, your son needs to not need you.

For ideas on raising boys to be godly men,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you tried this Scripture memory trick with your son?

Every boy has a different learning style– auditory, visual, kinesthetic, or reading and writing. You don’t have to know exactly what category your son falls into. The key is to simply  use each learning style to memorize the verse together.

Listen to the verse through a Bible reading app. Look up the verse in a physical Bible. Make up simple hand motions for each word of the verse. Then, have your boy write out the verse each day. Don’t forget to memorize the reference, as well!

If you use this method consistently with your son, you should be able to memorize a verse a week together.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a parenting tip: buy a mini fridge.

As your son enters his teenage years, he will begin to spend more time with his friends than with you. It’s a normal part of development. But there is something that can draw any teenage boy and his friends back to your home every single time– snacks!

Buy an inexpensive mini fridge and put it in a gathering area of your home, like a back deck or a basement. Stock it with snacks, waters, and sodas, and tell your son that it’s there for him and his friends.

It’s about more than just filling their stomachs. It’s about cultivating a place where your son is safe to fellowship with friends and navigate the challenges of the teen years.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Maybe, all your son needs is a ladder.

Every day in school, Phillip, an 8-year-old, would rebelliously refuse to complete any assignments. One day, a teacher realized that Phillip had a passion for ladders and construction. A small ladder was located. Phillip began sitting on that ladder every day during school, and to everyone’s amazement, started learning and completing his assignments.

That ladder gave Phillip what every young boy craves– respect and autonomy. If your son is struggling with behavior issues, take the time to learn what he likes. Then, give him appropriate levels of freedom, such as letting him pick what chore he would like to do.

When your son feels like his thoughts and feelings matter, he will begin to be more successful in all areas of his life.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you watering your son’s lawn?

In their famous book, called Boundaries, Dr. John Townsend and Henry Cloud give this analogy. When you don’t teach your teenage son responsibility, it’s like your son is your neighbor who doesn’t water his own lawn. But your sprinkler waters both your lawn and your boy’s lawn, so your son enjoys a green yard without any effort on his part.

Letting your son face natural consequences in life is crucial for his success as an adult. While it may be difficult to watch your son struggle due to bad choices, he will quickly learn that hard work brings not only success, but deep satisfaction. Let go, and give your son the skills he needs to keep his own lawn green.

For more ideas for raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Let’s be honest– the behavior of teen boys can be baffling! But what if there’s a simple reason for their baffling behavior?

When your son is mean to his sister, irritable about his homework, and disrespectful to you, stop and ask yourself– is he just tired? He may be staying up too late playing video games, or getting up incredibly early for swim practice. Researchers have found that, when children don’t get enough sleep, they have shorter attention spans, worse grades, and bad attitudes. 

Help your son out. Implement a family nighttime routine that involves turning off screens, taking a walk, and doing a quiet activity like reading. You may wake up to a much better-behaved teen in the morning.

To learn about raising godly boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Dealing with emotions can be difficult … for all of us.

But for your young son, feeling frustrated, disappointed, or jealous can be all-consuming.

Here are some steps you can take to help your son work through his feelings.

First, find a list of emotion words online. Post that list on your fridge, and discuss what each word means. Second, draw a thermometer and talk to your son about different levels of anger, so he can notice when he starts to get angry and take steps to calm down. Third, always make sure your son gets plenty of physical activity, especially on the days when he seems the most emotional.

Learning to regulate emotions today will benefit your son for years to come.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What if there are benefits to keeping your son busy?

Children and teens are spending more time in front of screens than ever before, and their mental and physical health is suffering for it. But instead of focusing on getting your son away from the screen, what about trying to keep him so busy he doesn’t have time for his phone or TV?

It may take lots of trial and error to find what your son likes. Some unique ideas include joining a robotics club, volunteering at a local radio station,  helping at a horse stable, or even coaching a little league baseball team.

When your son does find what he enjoys, encourage him to pursue that with excellence. When it’s the right activity, busy is not always bad.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“The kids are alright” was an iconic rock song by the Who. But unfortunately that phrase no longer rings true when it comes to young men in our society.

Boys today are struggling with rising rates of depression and anxiety, and underperforming girls at every academic level.  The boys are “not alright.”

So what can we do? The key is to go back to the basics. Boys need less time sitting down in school. They need more freedom to run, explore, play, and take healthy risks. One way to do this is to declare a “no screens” day once a week. Use that day to fish, hike, or volunteer with your son. I can guarantee your day will be more than just “alright”-- and your son will be too.

To learn about raising godly boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

This parenting tip may surprise you.

When your son is struggling with anger, your instinct may be to address his behavior. But did you know that, in boys, anger is often just a mask for a much deeper issue?

Child development specialists have found that, in boys, slamming doors, yelling, or being mean to a sibling can actually be signs of intense anxiety.

When your son seems angry, consider what’s going on in his life. Is he struggling in school or sports, or going through a major life change?

If so, help him find healthier ways to cope. Encourage him to get exercise. Connect him with a positive male mentor from church. And memorize verses together about how God gives your son the courage he needs.

To learn about raising boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Going to theme parks and ball games with the family isn’t cheap, and requires parents to say “No” to souvenirs, snacks, and other requests.

That’s okay. Boys need to learn moderation and the value of a buck.

But let’s say your son “gets it” and shows genuine appreciation. If you can swing it, next time – before you go through the gate – announce, “This is a splurge outing.” Budget some extra cash and let the family know you will try to say “Yes” to just about any request.

You may discover your son doesn’t abuse the privilege. His choices and purchases could be thoughtful and reasonable.

No matter what, your “splurge outing” can lead to healthy discussions about covetousness, God’s provision, and the source of true riches. For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Next time you’re at Wal-Mart or Hobby Lobby, spend about twenty bucks on a nice set of colored markers and a half dozen assorted poster boards. Then stash them in secret at home.

In the next year or so, your son is going to come to you as bedtime approaches with a look of terror on his face. “I need to make a poster for school that’s due tomorrow!”

You could say, “Too bad, too sad. Hope you learned a lesson.” You could race to the 24-hour drug store across town and pay triple for those supplies. Or you could magically produce them from your hidden stash!!

He’ll be grateful and amazed. And you’ll have that rare and wonderful feeling of being a hero to your son. For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Most of the time when your son messes up, he knows it. He has instant regrets. But it’s not easy to apologize.

Guilt, ego, and fear get in the way. He may feel unworthy of your love and forgiveness.

Consider the Prodigal son when he found himself broke, lonely, and even yearning for pig food. He was prepared to tell his father, “I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.”

But what did that dad do when he saw him a long way off? He ran to the boy!

Let’s do the same. When your son expresses sincere remorse, be eager to accept his apology. Maybe even throw him a party!

For more about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com. 

When your son starts questioning why God sometimes doesn’t make sense, turn to Isaiah 55 and explain that God’s thoughts are “higher” than ours.

Then, if you can, pull a cross stitch or embroidery off the wall. Turn that tapestry over so your son sees the tangled zig-zag of knots and loose threads on the back. Explain how that’s “our view,” and that life does get messy. Then turn it over and reveal “God’s view.”

That heavenly perspective – one we cannot possibly have yet – reveals perfect order. God’s plan is in place.

Then point out how the beauty of creation God provides in our temporary home proves that we can trust Him for an even more beautiful place in eternity.

We help parents share God’s purpose and glory with their sons. To learn more, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The best way to stay one step ahead of the latest technology might be … to ask your son!

Whether he’s 9 or 19, there’s a good chance he knows more than you.

Do a bit of research about emerging technologies in gaming and networking and then ask your son about it. He may be eager to show off his tech knowledge.

Treat him as an authority. Tell him you feel out of the loop and say, “Can you help me?” then let him teach you.

By  entering his world, you might identify stumbling blocks before they trip him up. You also may learn I.T. secrets you can use. Best of all, you’ll get new insight into that growing boy you love so much.

For more ways to connect with and protect your son, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Initially, a boy’s worldview comes from Mom and Dad.

Beginning around the age of 4 or 5—no matter what you have planned for his schooling—he will begin to learn things from other avenues. Cool, fun stuff. And maybe dangerous stuff.

Some is taught quite intentionally in textbooks and lesson plans. Other worldviews and attitudes come from friends, relatives, the kid down the street and the many screens he’ll come across in the decades to come.

From teachers, grandparents, and coaches, much of it will be good stuff! What a gift that is to your son!

But what about the bad stuff? As much as you would like, you can’t stop it all.

That’s why your son needs to develop his own personal faith and convictions. And that’s another reason to visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a new prescription for your glasses…

A comedy group once posted a fake commercial online for a device called “husband glasses.” When a wife put on the glasses, she no longer noticed the clutter in their home– but she could see a deer out of their window quite well.

That satire video points out an interesting truth. Starting from a very young age, boys and girls see the world quite differently. While girls focus on details, boys tend to be more skilled in noticing things that are far away– making them better hunters and protectors.

So, as a parent, be sure to put on your “son,” S-O-N, glasses. Give your son grace when he misses details. And encourage him to hone his visual strengths through outdoor activities— like archery or birdwatching.

For more ideas for raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Sometimes a country music lyric just nails it.

In 1999, a unique song was released on country radio. It wasn’t about trucks or dirt roads– it was about the relationship between a loving stepfather and a stepson. 

To everyone’s surprise, the song reached number one on the country charts. The key lyric, sang by artist Brad Paisley, reads:  “I hope I’m at least half the dad that he didn’t have to be.” 

You may not have a biological son. But every young man longs to be mentored, invested in, and listened to – not out of obligation, but simply out of love. Be prayerful about finding a boy in your church or your extended family who needs a dad-like figure to show him that he is worthy– just like the young man in that famous song. 

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Henry David Thoroeau once said, “I go a-fishing and a-hunting every day, but omit the fish and the game, which are the least important part. I have learned to do without them.”

Even when our fishing lines are slack and our deer tags are unfulfilled, we men have been wired by our Creator to need challenge and adventure.  And boys today are no exception.

Each week, help your son find a new activity to tackle. It doesn’t have to be hunting or fishing– it could be trying a complicated recipe, seeking out unique coins, or attending a class on weather-watching. Trust me– the result won’t matter much to your boy. He needs adventure simply for the sake of adventure.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You wouldn’t eat a raw potato, of course. But what if you chopped that potato up, and put it in hot oil for several minutes? You would have delicious, golden french fries.

As parents, we want our sons to have the happiest life possible, free of things that are risky or hurtful. We often wish we could take away every obstacle in our boy’s way so that he can accomplish all of his dreams.

But don’t be afraid to let your son fail, whether that means falling while trying a new skateboard trick, or not getting into the prestigious college he applied to. Just as hot oil changes a potato for good, difficult circumstances can transform your son into the person God created him to be.

For ideas on raising boys to be godly men,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

In 1962, the Soviet Union was winning the Space Race. To inspire the nation, President Kennedy announced, “We choose to go to the Moon.” He admitted that this wouldn’t be easy, but that we would succeed.

President Kennedy was right. Achievement is built on the backbone of hard work. But it’s competition that spurs us to even greater heights of progress. That’s why it’s unfortunate that today’s socialistic society tells parents that competition harms a boy’s self-esteem when they lose.

Even though losing isn’t fun, it’s by trudging through the valleys of loss that we can then enjoy the mountaintops of victory. By inspiring your son to conquer obstacles, he’ll develop the knowledge, skills, and fortitude to succeed in life.

To learn more about growing boys into godly men, download the free ebook Raising Godly Boys: A Proven Process at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys love action and adventure. God made them that way. But in our quest to keep them safe, we discourage risk. The result is that boys don’t have an outlet to test their courage and physical abilities.

That’s one reason video games are so popular. Boys play them for hours, trying to conquer new levels and beat the competition.

But life is more than a video game. As parents, we need to help boys develop their strengths. This might be on the athletic field, through a hobby, or even in the great outdoors.

When your son achieves a goal, celebrate his success. By appreciating his gifts and abilities, you’ll help him develop confidence to reach the next milestone.

To learn more about growing boys into godly men, download the free ebook Raising Godly Boys: A Proven Process at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Every night, you make sure your phone is plugged into its charger. If you forget, you know that your phone won’t last through the next day.

Your son is much the same way. If you don’t make sure his “battery” is charged at home, he will struggle to sit still and focus while he is at school.

Make sure your boy has plenty of opportunities each day to do fun and fulfilling things. Create an obstacle course for him in the backyard. Give him a bunch of cardboard boxes and help him build a fort. Take him for a long bike ride.

Chores and school are important, but let your boy be a boy. Then he will be “fully charged” to tackle life.

For ideas on raising boys to be godly men,  visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is America’s newest aircraft carrier. It’s longer than 3 football fields and taller than a 24-story building. But when this massive ship needs to stay in place, it relies on a 30,000-pound anchor.

In life, your son doesn’t need a physical anchor, but he does need to be grounded in God’s Word. Today’s anti-Christian culture will try to make him believe that choices of morality, truth, and gender are defined by each person. But by being well grounded in Scripture, he can defend his faith and stand firm against the cultural currents of the day.

Hebrews 6:19 is an excellent reminder that Jesus is the “anchor of our soul.”

To learn more about growing boys into godly men, download the free resource Raising Godly Boys: A Proven Process at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A young man was on his first river rafting trip with a group of friends. As he paddled through the rapids, he glanced at the shore and was surprised to see his dad, waving and cheering the group on.

Later on, he saw his father again, standing on the shore, shouting encouragement. The boy realized that his dad was running along the shore and waiting at each section of rapids to cheer his son on. The boy couldn’t stop smiling.

As parents, we often feel like we are failing our sons. But our boys don’t need perfection. All they need is to know they are worth going the extra mile for. How can you show your son that kind of Christlike love today?

To learn about the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Today’s boys seem busier than ever. They dart from one activity to another and yet remain confused and unguided. Why is that?

Consider, for a moment, the Falcon 9 rocket. It launches astronauts into space at more than 17,000 miles per hour! But if the rocket doesn’t go the right direction, the mission is doomed.

That’s why guidance and navigation systems are so important. They keep the rocket steady as it soars toward its destination.

As a parent, are you providing your son the guidance he needs to grow emotionally, socially, and spiritually? By spending one-on-one time with him, you show him—through action—how to soar toward success.

To learn more about growing boys into godly men, download the free ebook Raising Godly Boys: A Proven Process at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues of boys today. But why are boys so afraid?

First, society has made a sport of putting men down. Many women think that in order to be empowered, they need to prove that men are beneath them.

Second, our enemy, Satan, knows that if boys believe they are weak and not needed, they will not accomplish God’s purpose for their lives.

As parents, we must be counter-cultural. Find something positive to compliment your son on, and remind him of how valuable he is. Remind him of what God says in Isaiah 41:13- “For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand, and says, do not fear.”

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

It’s a tough world out there for boys. Research shows that they’re often unguided, ungrounded, unappreciated, and uninspired.

Part of the reason for this is that, in the name of progress, the value of manhood is being discounted. In fact, the term “toxic masculinity” is used to shame people into thinking that gender differences are bad. But they aren’t.

God designed boys and girls to be different from one another. Understanding this helps us realize that boys need male role models in their lives. It’s not enough just to be a dad. We need to demonstrate—through action—what a real man of courage, service, and leadership looks like. This begins by spending quality time with our sons. Are you doing this?

To learn more about growing boys into godly men, download the free ebook Raising Godly Boys: A Proven Process at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How much have you thought about brains lately?

In a typical male brain, neural connections go from the front to the back, while in a female brain the processing goes side to side. Boys also have more gray matter than girls, and scientists think this is why boys often excel at subjects like math, while girls enjoy language and arts. And since your son’s prefrontal cortex is bigger, he is more likely to deal with emotions analytically.

But even if you understand the science of it all, your son’s behavior may still baffle you. When it does, say a prayer, and know that God created every neuron in your son’s mind. He will give you the wisdom you need.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Does it ever seem like your son just doesn’t listen to you?

Well, you may actually be right.

Studies have found that boys are worse listeners than girls. Males only process information with one hemisphere of their brain. They also hear high-frequency sounds– like a mom’s voice– at significantly lower decibels.

Here are some tips to help your son be a better listener. First, minimize distractions, like turning off the TV or phone. Secondly, speak in short sentences, and make your main point clear. Lastly, encourage your son to “overlearn.” This means teaching him a similar concept over and over again in different ways, even after he understands it.

And, of course, praying for patience and perseverance for yourself will not hurt, either.

For tips and ideas for raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Batman struggles with being obsessive. Ironman has a problem with arrogance. And the Hulk…well, I think you can guess what his character flaw is.

We never say a superhero isn’t super just because they have issues. So why do we as men think we cannot be good mentors, just because we aren’t perfect?

Forty-three percent of boys today are raised by a single mom. Seventy-eight percent of teachers are female. So many young men have no examples in their life showing them what it means to be a man.

Take some time today for a young man in your life. Invite him on a hike or a fishing trip. You don’t have to be perfect. To that boy, you will be a superhero.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What did you have for breakfast this morning? Around 49% of people had a quick bowl of cereal. Popular brands include Cheerios, Frosted Flakes, and Raisin Bran. Across the country, Americans enjoy over a hundred types of cereal.

That’s a lot of variety, but there are even more ways of parenting kids. That’s why when it comes to raising your son, understanding his personality is vitally important.

Many boys have tons of energy. They love the excitement of sports and outdoor activities. Other kids prefer small groups where they receive individual attention.

Whatever your son’s personality, take time to talk, laugh, and play with him. By spending time together, you’ll better understand how to guide him through childhood to become a godly young man.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Life is busy. We all know that. But sometimes it feels as if we have to do everything to keep life running smoothly. We have to drive our kids to sports games, make sure they finish their homework, and tell them for the hundredth time to brush their teeth.

But it’s important to remember that we aren’t the only ones that want to see our kids succeed. Sunday school leaders, classroom teachers, coaches, friends, and many others have our kids’ best interests in mind.

Take a moment to thank the Lord for those people who are investing time and attention in your kids. The more you focus on the positive, the more you’ll see that you’ve got a great support group helping you along life’s parenting journey.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A battle is raging—and it’s destroying people’s lives. No, I’m not talking about wars and conflicts scattered across the globe. Rather, I’m referring to the cultural war on gender identity.

Secular activists use words like “toxic masculinity” to shame people into thinking that gender is destructive. But the Bible is clear. God created people either male or female.

As a parent, it’s important you fight back against the bombardment of identity politics. Here’s a tip: Get involved at your school’s Parent Teacher Association. Voice your concern to coaches, teachers, and community leaders. Make sure they respect the differences between boys and girls.

It’s time to take a stand. Because our children’s futures are at stake, it’s time to speak up for truth. But do it in love. The world is full of strident and angry voices. Let yours be seasoned with grace.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

During Jesus’ day, leprosy was an awful disease that caused horrible deformities.

That’s why when Jesus healed ten lepers, they were thrilled. They probably rushed away to tell the exciting news to their family and friends. And yet, only one leper returned to give thanks to Jesus.

We’re quick to blame those nine lepers, but at times, we’re just as ungrateful. We may not have leprosy, but our Lord still helps and strengthens us in many ways. And he often uses people around us to accomplish His will.

So, when was the last time you said “Thanks” to someone who provided help or encouragement? Remember: The more grateful you are, the more you’ll see God’s goodness and grace in your life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Don’t you wish parenting boys was easy? Wouldn’t it be great if your son always listened carefully, obeyed immediately, and behaved perfectly?

The truth is—that’s rarely the case. When your son tests your patience for the hundredth time in a day, take a deep breath and remember our Savior’s example. When the Pharisees tried to trick him, He responded calmly. When the Jews demanded that He be crucified, he asked God to forgive them.

Training boys takes time. It won’t happen overnight, but through patient and consistent parenting, you’ll see your son grow into a godly young man. And the more he changes spiritually within his heart, the more you’ll see positive change in his outward behavior.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

I will make a bet that your cell phone is within reach right now!

The first cell phone weighed 2.4 pounds and was larger than your head. That’s definitely not something you’d want to carry in your pocket. Fortunately, today’s cell phones are much smaller and lighter. They allow us to quickly talk And text each other.

And yet, despite the extraordinary technology within a cell phone, these devices often hinder communication. You’ve seen it—family members sitting beside one another staring at their phones. We’re so plugged into these devices that we lose contact with others. the very thing the devices were created for!

Don’t let that be you. Sure, go ahead and use technology, but don’t let it replace face-to-face communication. The more you talk and laugh with your teens, the more they’ll want to put down their phones and share life together with you.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you hanging on …too tightly?

In 1956, Jim Elliot was murdered by Indians in the jungles of Ecuador. Newspaper reporters wondered why this missionary would risk his life for uncivilized Indians. Though Jim Elliot died at only 28 years old, he had a proper perspective of life. He said,
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”

Too often, we hold tightly to possessions and activities that hold no eternal value. Don’t make the mistake of clinging to things of insignificance. Teach your kids through your example to give your time and talents to worthwhile causes. That may seem hard at first, but as you make God a daily priority, your possessions and activities will come into proper focus.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Microwave much?

In today’s society, we expect immediate results. When we try something new, we want instant success. But life doesn’t always work that way.

Sometimes life is hard and tough. Sometimes failure crashes over us like an avalanche. During these times, it’s easy to grow discouraged. Maybe even angry.

But if you are wise, you’ll use times of fatigue, frustration, and failure to teach your son important lessons about grit and determination. And guess what? The more your son sees you rely on God as you work through trials and challenges, the more he’ll understand that God provides the strength to continue on.

It’s great when failures transform into Immediate successes. But it’s even better when your son grows spiritually by seeing your faith in action over time.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“Trust your instruments.” This mantra is repeated all through flight school. While flying, it’s easy to get disoriented visually, especially in thick fog. Pilots must learn to trust their gauges, not their vision.

Boys today are also “flying through fog,” so to speak. In the confusion of cultural relativism and gender fluidity, young men don’t know where they are or where they are going. So they often choose their own course, or refuse to move at all.

As parents, we must help our son gain a solid foundation and understanding of God’s Word. Involve your boy in organizations that are founded on Biblical truth. Help him find a positive, godly mentor. And encourage your boy to memorize Scripture– the only “instrument” that will never fail him.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

In 2010, a man named Forrest Fen buried treasure in the Rocky Mountains, and published a book with clues to its whereabouts. Thousands went searching for it. Four men even died during the hunt. Finally the box was found in 2020.

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that most of the people who embarked on that search were male.  From the time we are very young, boys love a good challenge. If young men are under-challenged, they will rebel, resist, or become apathetic. Others will turn to a virtual world they can conquer.

Today, be sure your son gets some real-life adventure. Not sure where to start? Tell him to put down his controller and get outside. Who knows– there may even be buried treasure in your backyard.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

In 1899, an inventor put batteries in a tube and created a portable electric light. There was only one problem– the light would only stay on for about three seconds. The device did not sell well, and people jokingly called it a “FLASH light.”

Today, of course, the flashlight is a household staple, with some models staying lit for at least 50 hours.

As the parent of a teenage boy, it’s easy to feel like that inventor. Your son may only behave or listen for brief “flashes” at a time. But let me encourage you–continue to be as consistent as you can with your discipline. It may be hard to believe, but someday, your boy will be a light.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A college student accidentally solved an impossible math problem. George Dantzig arrived late to class to find his peers working silently on several math problems written on the chalkboard. George worked through the problems and turned his paper in.

Later, he learned that one of those problems wasn’t homework after all, but was an equation that mathematicians considered unsolvable. George solved the problem, simply because he didn’t know it was supposed to be impossible.

There’s a lesson here for us as parents of boys. In a society that’s increasingly negative towards men, let’s be positive about the dreams and aspirations our sons have, even if they seem a little far-fetched. Who knows what they can accomplish if they live by Luke 1:37- With God, nothing is impossible.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Cultures all around the world have rituals to signify a boy becoming a man, and they range from straightforward to extreme. Some societies have young men go on a hunt. In one small country, a boy participates in a primitive form of bungee jumping. In another, he must successfully jump over a cow to prove his manhood. Others simply send their sons into the wilderness to survive.

Although those rituals sound bizarre to us here in the US, our boys still desperately need challenges to build their maturity and self-confidence.

One way to do that is to get your son outside! Activities like mountain climbing and archery are excellent opportunities for your son to gain life skills and feel like a true man.

To learn about the 5 Critical Needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com

Do you remember the day your son took his first step? Perhaps he had already been standing for a few weeks while holding onto the couch. But at some point, he took a wobbly step toward your outstretched arms. You clapped and cheered and gave him a giant hug.

Learning to walk is a key milestone in a boy’s physical development. But learning to walk worthy is just as important for a boy’s spiritual development. If your son has accepted Christ as his personal Savior, teach him to honor the Lord through his words, thoughts, and actions.

Colossians 1:10 is an excellent verse for you and your son to memorize together. It reminds us to “walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him . . .”

To learn about the 5 Critical Needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys love action and adventure. That’s why paddling a canoe across a lake or along a river is a time-tested way to exercise their minds and bodies.

But have you ever heard the phrase “Up a creek without a paddle”? It refers to being in a difficult or dangerous situation where you can’t get yourself out of the problem or predicament.

As your son grows up, don’t let him be stranded “Up a creek without a paddle.” Trials and challenges will try to sink his boat. Turbulent waters will try to knock him off course. But by teaching your son how to manage stress, learn new life skills, and seek God’s guidance, you’ll prepare him to navigate choppy waters to reach the shore of success.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you’ve ever taken your son to an archery range, you know that hitting the bullseye is harder than it looks. After you knock the arrow, you draw the bowstring back—then take careful aim. Your goal is to successfully hit the target.

The same is true in parenting your son.

Zig Ziglar, an author and motivational speaker, understood this principle well. He said,
“You hit what you aim at, and if you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.”

As you train your son, provide challenges and encouragement that will help him grow in specific areas of life. By being intentional in what you want to accomplish, you’ll see your son zoom toward the target.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What does a cactus have to do with your son?

The Saguaro cactus is an amazing desert plant. It stretches high into the air like a telephone pole, reaching heights of 40 feet or more.

But did you know that this colossal cactus grows slowly? It isn’t unusual for it to be 2-inches tall on its 10th birthday. Soon after, the saguaro begins growing faster and keeps up this steady growth until eventually towering over other cacti species.

Maybe your son is like the saguaro. Maybe he’s a slow learner at home or at school. Sure, it’s fine to get your son extra tutoring help, but it’s important to realize that we all have different rates of physical, mental, social, and even spiritual growth. The key is to continue growing—little by little and day by day.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How do YOU feel about … puzzles?

When putting together a 500-piece puzzle, you don’t normally complete it all at one time. You work on it a few minutes here and a few minutes there. But gradually, the pieces start coming together until—at long last—you see the entire puzzle in all its glory.

Too often, we expect our children to mature faster than what is realistic. We wish to see the entire picture of their youth from the very start. But the growth process doesn’t work that way. God’s picture for our children’s lives is assembled one piece at a time. Clear communication fits into instruction, and quality time fits into encouragement.

As we rely on God for guidance, He transforms the pieces of our children’s lives into a beautiful masterpiece.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

How’s your balance? And I'm not talking about your checkbook!

In June of 2012, Nik Wallenda walked from the United States’ side of Niagara Falls to the Canadian side. Sounds easy, until you realize that he walked high above the raging waterfalls on a 2-inch tightrope.

Even though Wallenda held a 40-foot balancing pole in his hands, gusts of wind and swirling spray made the long crossing mentally and physically exhausting.

At times, parents feel almost as much stress as a daredevil on a tightrope. We have to balance jobs and home responsibilities with our children’s academic studies, sports programs, and other activities.

When you start feeling off balance, remember Ecclesiastes 3:1. It says, “To everything there is a season.” This reminds us to take one task at a time, and to rely on God for continued strength and balance.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What do Grammy-award winning artist Jay-Z, former President George Washington, and Olympic medalist Michael Phelps all have in common?

All three men were raised by single parents. 

Today, about forty percent of boys are also raised solely by their mother– an epidemic that continues to grow. If you’re one of those hero single parents, do not lose heart. God sees you and knows the challenges you face.

If you’re not a single parent, look for young men in your life who need a father-figure. A game of catch, a fishing trip, or encouragement from the stands at a track meet can make a life-changing difference.

Who knows? You might just be cheering on a future music star, president, or Olympic medalist.

To learn about the 5 Critical Needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A battle rages—and boys are on the front lines. They are daily bombarded by anti-Christian philosophies:

Relativism—disrupts truth and biblical morality,

Humanism—teaches that a person must depend on himself, not God, if this is true, then why do we even need God?

And evolution—teaches that we evolved by mere chance, the very existence of a loving Creator is ridiculed.

Don’t let these worldly philosophies destroy your son’s faith in Christ. Teach him to stand on the solid Word of God.

Training your son in today’s secular culture isn’t easy. It requires time and attention. Learn about a Proven Process that can help you accomplish this. Visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com for free downloadable resources.

A reporter asked Thomas Edison, “How did it feel to fail 1,000 times?” Edison replied, “I didn’t fail 1,000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps.”

One of the greatest inventions of the 19th century was the lightbulb. But creating the lightbulb required lots of trial and error.

Failure is a part of life. In fact, it’s normal and natural. And even though no one likes to fail, it teaches us to do better and to strive harder as we reach for our goals.

Boys need a challenge. Even though trying something new may result in failure, that failure is helping them develop important character traits that are essential for future success.

Are you helping your boys learn from failure? Visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com for practical tips on how to help your boys grow into godly young men.

Have you ever wandered across a rickety bridge and wondered if it could manage the weight? If you're carrying something heavy, that fear can be very real.

Carrying truth can be like that. Especially when you are carrying truth to a boy.

Make sure that bridge - your connection to that boy - is strong enough to carry the weight of that truth.

The reality with boys, particularly teens, is that simply telling them the truth isn't enough. You've got to have a connection, a bridge, strong enough to carry that truth for that truth to have its full impact. Otherwise, you're just breaking bridges.

For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Everyone loves a good comeback story, so here’s one for you– paper maps are making a resurgence!

With digital maps built into many of our cars, you would think paper map sales would continue to fall. But people are realizing that print maps are more helpful than GPS when you’re trying to learn the best way to navigate a new area.

This concept reminds me of why young men today so desperately need male mentors. Sure, your son can observe successful men on social media or on video. But in order to understand what it means to be a man, an in-person, dad-like figure in his life is the map that every young man needs.

So, make sure that boy has a mentor? And get a paper map!

Now if only I can figure out how to fold the thing!

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

It was a summer day, and three dads were trying to come up with a way to keep their children occupied. They rummaged through their garages and found wiffle balls and wooden paddles. After taking their kids to a neighbor’s badminton court, the dads lowered the net, and let the children whack the wiffle balls.

Those three bored fathers had no idea that they had just developed a game that would later become extremely popular, called Pickleball.

There’s a lesson for us parents in this story– let your son be bored. Don’t be afraid to confiscate the smartphone and the tablet and leave him with nothing to do. He might accidentally develop one of the fastest growing and most popular sports in the United States!

To learn more about raising boys to be successful and godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ahhh … vacation!

Do you remember the last time you went on vacation? Before leaving, you probably spent time thinking about what clothes and other items you’d need at your destination. Then you probably gathered all those things together and packed them into a suitcase.

On this journey called parenthood, it’s even more important to bring everything necessary. Begin by packing love. Next, fold in joy. After that, squeeze in humor, laughter, and a bunch of fun. And, of course, don’t forget to include patience, gratitude, and forgiveness. This is just the beginning.

Make sure you come up with your own packing list as you journey through the hills and valleys of parenthood.

To help you along the way, Trail Life USA has fun and exciting programs that are helping boys grow into godly men. For more information, visit RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Fore!

If you’ve ever played golf, you’re probably familiar with the term “mulligan.” That’s a fancy word that simply means “do-over.” If you’re on the tee and you slice the ball off into the trees, you might shout, “Mulligan!” You’re basically saying that you want a second try.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could get a parenting “mulligan” every once in a while? Maybe you chose your favorite TV show over spending time with your son. Or maybe you reacted impatiently during a moment of frustration.

Even though you can’t have a parenting do-over, you can always start fresh from where you are! The key is to purpose in your heart to do a better job, and then ask the Lord for strength and wisdom to follow through.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Parents, have you been there?

Your son has tears in his eyes as he shows you that he got another “D” on his math test. You start explaining why perseverance is important, but his eyes glaze over. You decide to try a different approach.

“Son, did I ever tell you about the two classes I failed in middle school?” Your boy raises his eyebrows. You’ve piqued his interest.

It’s easy for us as parents to try lecturing to get our points across. But when Jesus walked on earth, he didn’t give long speeches. Instead, he told stories.

Use the same strategy with your son. When he’s discouraged, recall a struggle you overcame when you were his age, and share that with him. You just might teach him a lesson he will never forget.

For more ideas for raising boys to be Godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Your son is enjoying a day kayaking down a river. Suddenly, he hears rushing water, and sees rapids up ahead. His heart beats fast, and he begins to paddle forward, right into the waves.

In life, watching your son head straight into challenging territory can be a frightening and stressful experience. But there’s a reason God wired boys to crave adventure, excitement, and risk. Child development specialists have found that taking risks is an essential part of growing up, and gives boys excellent coping skills, self confidence, and the ability to fail well.

So don’t be afraid. Equip your son with knowledge, say a prayer, and let him paddle forward. On the other side of those rapids is an amazing opportunity.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Ever heard the phrase “match the hatch”? It reminds fishermen that the best way to catch fish is to figure out what the fish are eating. But did you know this concept could help you get your teenage son involved in church, too?

Pay close attention to what activities your boy is drawn toward the most. Does he love music and playing an instrument? Encourage him to get involved in the church praise team. Is he into skateboarding? Search for a local Christian skater group. Does he love the adventure of video games? Get him involved with Christian outdoor groups, like Trail Life USA.

Don’t pull your son away from the things that interest him– instead, “match the hatch” and find a Christian community related to his favorite activity.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s something you’ll rarely hear shouted during a major league baseball game: “Great call, ump!”

Even the best, most experienced umpire will face constant criticism, taunting, and ridicule for every decision. Spectators only talk them if they are angry about a call that was made.

Consider this. Does your son feel like an umpire in his everyday life– constantly surrounded by criticism? At school, is he teased by his friends? Do his well-meaning teachers focus on the problems he missed? At home, do you remind him of the chores he didn’t do and the vegetables he didn’t eat?

Make it your goal to verbally affirm your son for the things he’s doing well. He needs that affirmation more than you probably realize.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The baseball hall of fame is full of failures.

Consider Joe DiMaggio, one of the all-time top hitters. His batting average was .325. But even that great statistic means that Joe failed to hit the ball almost 70% of the time.

Unfortunately, in our society, boys do not receive the same margin for error. Young men naturally develop slower than their female peers, in both academics and emotional intelligence. But that is often ignored by educators, and boys are quickly labeled “slow” when they simply need more time to develop.

Let’s be like the baseball hall of fame. Let’s focus on the good, give lots of grace for failure, and celebrate each successful hit our boys make in life.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

The player stands at the free throw line, preparing for a critical shot. He takes a few seconds to adjust his arms and his feet. He knows that the only way he can make this shot is if his whole body is in perfect alignment.

For your son, life is the same way. The only way he can succeed  is if his beliefs about himself are aligned with the ultimate truth of God’s word. This can be tough, in a society of gender fluidity and cultural relativism.

Regularly discuss with your son what God’s word has to say about current events. Memorize scripture together about his identity in Christ. And pray for godly, positive male mentors to inspire him and show him what a life aligned with Jesus looks like.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Your son proudly shows you a new scrape on his knee, reporting that he had a bike wreck while riding down a hill. You grab a bandaid and shake your head. It’s your son’s fifth injury of the week! How can you keep him safe when he seems to crave and seek out risk?

First, encourage him to focus on one or two skills, like skateboarding or snow skiing. Secondly, enroll him in classes so that he learns how to minimize injuries. Of course, don’t forget the helmet, elbow pads, and prayer of protection. And lastly, remember that taking risks is actually crucial for your son’s brain development. Try to relax.

Oh– and buying bandaids in bulk might be a good idea, too.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Getting your young son to sit still for a church service, car ride, or class in school can be a challenge. But one school in Texas doesn’t have this problem. Why? Well, they’ve tripled recess time.

During the school day, the kindergartners and first graders at this school get four, 15 minute recess breaks outside each day. The  teachers say the kids are more attentive than ever, and many have even decreased symptoms of ADHD.

So if your son seems grumpy and uncooperative today, why don’t you try a different kind of “time out”? Take a jog with him, ride a bike, or find interesting leaves and flowers. Time outside, letting your boy be a boy, can turn his whole day around.

To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

There’s something you can do as a family that can increase your son’s attention span, improve his vocabulary, foster deep conversation, and even boost your happiness as a parent. Sound good? Here’s the catch– your son may roll his eyes at first.

I’m talking about reading out loud as a family. Your son may think he’s too old for it now, but researchers have found that the benefits continue even as children become preteens or even teenagers.

Find a compelling adventure book and read a chapter a night together. A good place to start is your local Christian bookstore, which may have some fiction books your son will find exciting. Pop some popcorn and settle on the couch with your boy, and you both will reap the benefits of reading aloud.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“Your son is delayed.” Those words can fill you worry and even some fear as a parent. But did you know that your son may be perfectly normal, and the system may be incorrect?

Researchers have found that boys’ brains develop more slowly than their female peers’ brains. The public school system doesn’t often take this into account, and a student’s success is measured by standardized tests. This is also true when it comes to behavior. As a result, many boys are labeled delayed when it comes to emotions or intelligence, when, in reality, they will catch up in due time.

Don’t lose heart. And don’t forget to take your worries to God. Your son is perfectly and wonderfully made.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Breakfast. School. Homework. Dinner. Does your son seem bored or disengaged in his day to day life? Here’s a simple way to add adventure, spontaneity, and excitement to his life: Get him outside!

Nature can actually change your son’s brain for the better. Studies have found that when someone regularly spends time outside, essential regions of the brain, like the hippocampus, grow and retain more gray matter. This makes it easier for your son to pay attention, learn, and remember things.

Start simple. Get a baseball and play catch in your backyard. Look online to find a bike trail or body of water. Your boy will feel more satisfied with his life, and as a bonus, your relationship will most likely improve.

To learn about a Proven Process to raise godly boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

His superman cape flies out behind him majestically, and he lifts his arms. “One, two, three!” Your five year old jumps off the swing set. A short time later, as you drive him to the emergency room with a broken arm, you wonder, “Why in the world did he do that?”

As parents, we remind our kids to be careful, but the truth is that boys don’t just want risk… they need it. Risky play helps your son learn to deal with nervous feelings, adapt to new situations, and improve his gross motor skills.

So what are some examples of safe risky play? Being in the elements and near fire or water. Games like hide and seek. Riding a bike fast.

Just don’t forget to pray for courage…for yourself, of course.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

“Take out the trash. This is the fourth time I’ve told you,” you tell your son. Your son says “What? I didn’t hear you.”

Here’s a fact that may not surprise you:  boys are biologically wired to be bad listeners. Studies have found that, when a boy and girl hear the same sound, the boy will hear it 10 times quieter than the girl will.  This is especially true if it’s a high frequency sound, like a woman’s voice.

Since 78% of teachers are female, it’s no wonder that boys are falling behind girls academically. So what can we do as parents? Give our boys grace. Explore alternative learning styles. And yes, we may need to ask several times for the trash to get taken out.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

There’s a bunch of excitement in the rocket industry. SpaceX and other companies are building gigantic rockets. They’re even planning Mars missions.

But before a rocket ever leaves the ground, there are countless hours of building and programming. Every part of the rocket is checked and double checked to make sure it’s ready for liftoff.

Before your son heads off for college or moves away for work, it’s important to prepare him for that big day. Make sure he has everything he needs to accomplish the mission of honoring the Lord with his life. And don’t forget: That building process begins years before liftoff.

Carefully and strategically train your son when he is young. That way, when he is ready to launch out into the world, everything will go smoothly.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

During the California Gold Rush of 1849, thousands of prospectors panned for gold in mountain streams and riverbeds. But those prospectors who spent time, sweat, and effort digging into the earth were the ones most likely to strike it rich. Discovering a single vein of gold was worth way more than hundreds of gold flakes from the river.

Help your son strike it rich in terms of godly character. Show him—through personal example—how to dig deep into Scripture. It’s there that he’ll discover the incredible treasures of service, commitment, and integrity.

Remember: the more your son understands the value of honoring the Lord with his life, the more he’ll want store up treasures in heaven—where thieves will never break in and steal.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Do you remember your son taking his first steps? No doubt you had already been holding his hand—and helping him take one step in front of the other.

But eventually, the day came where he climbed to a stand, and took those first few steps all by himself. You cheered with joy and excitement.

Even though your son is no longer a toddler, continue to train him to walk in righteousness. Psalm chapter 1 provides excellent teaching. Show your son how to delight in the Lord and not to pursue a path of the selfishness and pride.

Proverbs 22:6 says,
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you plan to go skiing, you wear ski boots. If you’re heading to the beach, you wear sandals. For a quick jog around the block, you wear running shoes.

You select your shoes based on the type of activity.

Similarly, when training, correcting, or playing with your son, it’s vital to select the appropriate tone for the task at hand. It’s also crucial that you understand your son’s personality so that you can most effectively connect with him.

At times, you may need to choose a serious tone. Other times, a light-hearted attitude is most appropriate.

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” type of parenting. Understanding your son takes effort. But the more time and attention you devote to him, the more prepared he’ll be for life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever broken an arm? Depending on the type of break, the doctor might have needed to set the bones straight before placing your arm in a cast. That cast kept your arm protected so that the broken bones could grow back together.

If your relationship with your son is broken, you also need to set things straight. Take time to allow the relationship to heal. This may require a season of rest and extra attention. You may need to cut out other activities so that you can devote extra time to helping the relationship rest and recover.

A broken relationship hurts. But by taking immediate steps to help it recuperate, you and your son will grow closer together, and—in time—stronger than ever.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever watched a stunt driver race his motorcycle up a steep ramp and into the air? Maybe he did a double backflip with a bunch of twists and turns.

Those crazy stunts require an incredible about of control. If the stuntman were to leave the ramp at the wrong angle, he’d land off target and experience an awful wipeout.

To succeed in life, your son also needs to be in control. Because boys are usually impulsive, self-control is one of the hardest lessons for them to learn. But a little self-control goes a long way in helping him steer through the twists and turns of life.

So teach your son the importance of self-control. The more self-control he has, the greater his chance of soaring high in life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Imagine sending an army to war without the tools or training to achieve victory. And yet, we are sending boys, ill-equipped, into a culture that seems to have declared war on boyhood.

The results are tragic. Boys are almost twice as likely to be put in special education and three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. And each year, fewer young men enroll in higher education.

But changing these statistics is easier than you may think. For example, the presence of one positive mentor can make a young man more likely to make healthy choices, get better grades, and have higher self esteem.

Today, ask God to put a man in your son’s life who can show him how to soldier on in the battle of life. 

For ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Fidgeting. Being loud. Having trouble staying seated. Running or climbing when it’s not appropriate.

We used to consider these normal behaviors for young boys.  But now, they are listed as symptoms of ADHD.

Attention disorders are certainly real. But in some cases, what if instead of changing our boys’ behavior, we need to adjust our approach as adults?

For instance–too much screen time and not enough exercise can make it hard for your son to sleep at night. In turn, being tired can make it hard for him to focus during the day. What if you turned off all screens after dinner, and took a family walk before bed instead? You and your son will both reap the benefits.

To learn about raising boys to be healthy, godly men, go to TrailLife USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You’re sitting at the dinner table, and you ask your son if he’s ready for basketball tryouts. Your son’s face starts to turn red. Suddenly, he stands up, pushes his plate away, and knocks his chair over intentionally as he leaves the room.

You’re confused. What caused this sudden anger outburst?

Researchers have discovered that when boys seem angry or withdrawn, they are often actually anxious.

So if your son seems angry for no reason, consider what may be stressing him out. Give him time to cool off. Get on his level, and engage him with physical touch and eye contact. And help him find healthier outlets for his anxiety, such as running or shooting hoops.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You’ve no doubt heard of Babe Ruth, who set a record for most number of home runs in his baseball career– seven hundred and fourteen.

But here’s a statistic you probably haven’t heard– Babe Ruth’s total career strikeouts. One thousand three hundred and thirty. That’s right– he struck out far more than he hit homers.

When it comes to your own son, of course you want him to hit all the proverbial “home runs” in life. But don’t forget to let him fail, too. It can be hard for us parents to watch, but failure can actually build resilience and be more beneficial for our children than success.

Just ask Babe Ruth, who said– “Every strike brings me closer to the next home run.”

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You’ve tried everything, but you just can’t pull your son away from his video games. Well here’s something to consider. Does your son’s real life give him the same opportunities for adventure that his virtual world does?

Of course, video games are addictive by design. But researchers have found that boys also turn to gaming out of boredom, seeking freedom and risk.

Try adding a few more “yesses” to your son’s life. Let him ride his bike down a hill, take a walk in the woods, or try climbing a tree. The best way to draw your son away from a virtual world is to give him healthy challenges in real life.

To learn about the five critical needs of boys as they grow up, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Billy Graham was one of the most influential evangelists of the 20th century. He boldly proclaimed the Gospel to over 200 million people. But in addition to his important preaching ministry, Billy Graham also had an important message for fathers.

He said,
“A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society.”

As a dad, you have the incredible privilege of raising your son to love the Lord and follow His ways. This brings with it the responsibility of providing a strong, Christ-centered foundation for your family.

So, how is your parenting journey coming along? Remember, you’ll never regret investing time and attention in your son.

For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Gangs. They are responsible for almost half of violent crime in the United States. And yet, boys and men continue to join these groups in droves, some recruited as early as elementary school. Why?

Here’s a big reason. As boys interact socially, they are always asking three questions: “Who is with me?” “Who is in charge?” And, “What is our mission?”

Often, church groups and social clubs, although well-intentioned, fail to answer those questions. If we aren’t answering these questions for boys, we will surely lose them to groups that will.

To ensure your son thrives, help him identify friends, leaders, and the bigger purpose in everything he does– from school to soccer practice.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

In the old days of coal mining, canaries were brought into mines. If the bird died, the miners knew they needed to escape, because there was something noxious in the atmosphere.

In our society today, boys are just like those canaries. Many are faltering in every area, including school, relationships, and mental health.

But there is one simple thing that can make young men more likely to make healthier choices, do better in school, and have a stronger self esteem. And that is the presence of a positive mentor.

Think you’re not equipped to be a mentor? Think about the heroes you had growing up. They made you feel valued, worthy, and inspired– and I promise, they were far from perfect people.

To learn about a Proven Process for raising boys to become godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys love the story of David and Goliath. Afterall, anytime there’s a battle involving giants with swords, it’s sure to capture attention.

But too often, boys fail to apply important lessons from David’s life. Before David defeated Goliath, he had learned to depend on God when battling lions that attacked his sheep. By relying on God in these smaller tests of faith, David had confidence that God would help him no matter what giant situation came his way.

What giants are your son facing? At school, is he struggling academically? Are bullies harassing him? Does he know how to navigate peer pressure?

The more your son understands that true strength comes from God—for both the small and big stuff—the more victorious he will be in life.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Two of the most difficult words for a parent to say are, “I’m sorry.” Are you saying them enough?

As parents, we should ask for forgiveness from our kids if we lose our temper, or don’t control our tongue, or if we jump to conclusions without gathering the necessary facts.

The difficulty is that we can feel vulnerable, inadequate, and even slightly humiliated when apologizing.

But here’s the truth: Your son or daughter will grow to love and respect you even more if you apologize. Humbling yourself demonstrates—through action—a love so strong that you are willing to admit wrong in order to restore the relationship.

Saying sorry isn’t easy, but your example goes a long way in helping your children see what true spiritual maturity looks like.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Glance into your purse or wallet and you’ll probably see a few dollar bills. Written on those dollar bills are these words: In God We Trust.

It’s nice having that motto on our coins and bills—but it’s even more important to demonstrate that motto in our lives … that we teach this to our sons.

Has your son trusted in Jesus as his Savior? If so, are you teaching him the importance of trusting in the Lord for daily guidance?

Proverbs 3:5 says,
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”

Parenting is full of challenges. But when we trust in God, He promises to provide strength and help in time of need.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys love football.

And these days, a great benefit of watching football on TV is the instant replay. You can re-watch—and practically relive—those exciting catches, fumbles, and interceptions.

The instant replay is fantastic. But in real life, there is no “redo”. You get only one chance to raise your son through his adolescent years.

But what if you haven’t trained your son as well as you wish you had? If that’s the case, take heart.

C.S. Lewis said,
“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.”

As a parent, you don’t get to redo your child’s youth. Because of that, make each play count so that in the end, you score a win for the glory of God.

For more parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When Benjamin Franklin’s name is mentioned, kids think of the Guy who placed a metal key on a kite string.

But adults recognize Benjamin Franklin as one of America’s most important Founding Fathers. In addition to helping to write the Declaration of Independence, he also had great advice about the learning process.

He said,
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”

Kids learn in different ways, but boys—especially—benefit from physical involvement. It’s one thing to tell a boy how to do something. But having him actually do it helps him remember and apply the lesson in a much more effective way.

For information about how to help boys learn and grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

When you’re expecting a baby, you’re filled with dreams of how extraordinary your child will eventually become. But if your son has special needs or experiences developmental delays, you dream about him functioning in an ordinary way.

The expectations we have for our children don’t always turn out the way we wish. During these times, it’s easy to become angry, frustrated, and bitter.

When these emotions begin swirling through your mind, return your focus to the God of all comfort. Remember that God selected you as a parent for a specific reason. And because He chose you, He will equip you for the task at hand.

It’s also helpful to receive encouragement throughout the parenting journey. Trail Life USA has a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men. Learn more at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

You can make your son’s day by putting his favorite candy in his backpack— a fruit roll up, a kit-kat, or maybe a Snickers. But what if you could load his backpack with what he needs emotionally, spiritually, and socially, as well?

The critical needs of boys can be symbolized by five survival tools– a compass, a map, a guide, a flashlight, and a mountain.

First, boys need a “compass”– a clear mission, and a “map”– a safe male mentor. Next, your son needs a “guide”– peers to walk beside on the trail of life. The “flashlight” symbolizes every boy’s need for clear boundaries and rules. And finally, young men must have a “mountain”– a real-world challenge.

And of course, giving them their favorite candy can help, too. 

For ideas on meeting the five critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If your son is like most boys, he’s full of curiosity and spontaneity. These characteristics help boys better understand the world around them. But—when not properly controlled—impulsive actions can lead to problems and pain.

Help your son understand how actions have consequences. A great way to do this is to read the Bible with him.
Show him how Samson thought he was invincible—but that he was no match against Delilah.
Point out how Peter thought he could walk on water—but that he sank when he took his eyes off Jesus.

By studying both good and bad examples, your son will gain a better understanding of how to act with discernment and wisdom.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If your car has a flat tire, it’s important to fix it fast. If you keep driving on it, the rim will quickly shred the rubber. After that you’ll ruin the alignment, brakes, and suspension. You might even lose control of the vehicle.

Similarly, if your relationship with your son is deflated, it’s important to fix it … fast. Maybe you had a disagreement or misunderstanding with him. Maybe harsh words were said. Maybe impatience won the day.

Regardless of who was at fault, it’s important to patch things up. You don’t want bitterness causing more serious problems down the road. A little bit of preventative maintenance goes a long way in helping you both go the distance.

For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys race ahead in life, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

At times, your son may act like an outlaw terrorizing the wild west. As sheriff, it’s your job to keep the peace and enforce the laws. But as you know, it’s easy to grow frustrated, impatient, and exhausted at having to correct him over and over again.

When your blood pressure starts to rise, take time to recall moments from the past. Pull out your phone and flip through old pictures. Do you remember the day your son learned to ride a bike? Or when he won a ribbon at the science fair? Remember him jumping for joy after kicking that soccer goal?

These memories help put present-day challenges in perspective. Even though life often seems hard, good times from the past will encourage you to stay strong for the future.

For more parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you concerned about bullying?

Research tells us that the #1 concern of parents for their children is that they will be bullied.60 percent of all mothers and fathers report this fear.

Though bullying may seem to us to be child’s play that will pass in time, the emotional effects are powerful, especially for boys, who are struggling with identity in a world that values them less.

Your son’s best response to bullying will be fostered as his identity grows in a community that supports your values, which should include a respect for all people. A strong identity with a faith-based community is a great defense against the feelings of inadequacy that can threaten a boy’s confidence.

For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A tiny seed doesn’t become a towering tree overnight, nor by accident.

After a seed sprouts, it requires healthy soil, direct sunlight, and consistent moisture to develop strong roots. These roots are vital in helping it stand strong through the winds and storms of life.

The same is true in parenting.

Your son needs healthy attention, direct instruction, and consistent love in order to develop a strong foundation to withstand today’s anti-Christian culture.

By providing your son this emotional support, you establish the foundation that will lead him toward greater character, purpose, and leadership skills in life.

For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

God made boys with a competitive spirit. They crave the excitement of challenging themselves against others and emerging victorious.

This desire to compete is a positive characteristic. But when competition within the home mutates into sibling rivalry, beware.

Sibling rivalry often begins with jealousy, bitterness, and resentment. Because brothers and sisters don’t know how to process these emotions, they often resort to bickering, insults, and even outright fighting.

As a parent, it’s easy to grow impatient with your quarreling kids. Instead, take time to pray for wisdom. Evaluate what the core issue is—and then respond accordingly.

Many times, boys simply need greater physical activity or encouragement to achieve meaningful goals. For more on this, and practical help in growing boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys love to test their physical strength through competition. This often involves sports such as football, soccer, or wrestling.

But boys also measure their strength through weightlifting. By pumping iron, they develop muscle and gain stamina.

The problem is that in the gym, it’s easy for boys to think that bigger biceps equals a better man.

Teach your son that, although a challenging physical routine can bring all kinds of results, even more important than physical strength . . . is strength of character.

Here’s an idea: Study Bible characters from God’s Word. How did those men succeed or fail in life? How can we learn from their examples?

Becoming a godly man doesn’t happen by accident. It takes consistent training. Trail Life USA has a Proven Process that is helping boys grow spiritually. Learn more at Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Warning! Your son is being targeted.

A relentless enemy is trying to entice, trap, and destroy his heart and mind. This enemy hides in the shadows—yet is constantly attacking your son.

Who is this enemy? It’s pornography.

Here’s a shocking statistic. The top pornographic website has more visits each day than Netflix, Amazon, and Twitter—combined!

Don’t let pornography destroy your son’s heart, mind, and future. Help him develop a solid foundation in Scripture. Remind him that Philippians 4:8 instructs him to think on things that are true, noble, just, and pure.

It’s a tough world out there . . . especially for boys. That’s why Trail Life USA provides practical resources to help you along the way.

Visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com to learn about a Proven Process that is helping transform boys into godly men.

Boys are in trouble.

More than ever, they’re being intentionally misled and confused by an anti-Christian culture that wants to destroy their faith in Jesus Christ. Secular worldviews—including relativism and humanism—also want to devour your son’s heart and mind, and thereby control his thoughts and actions.

To withstand these attacks, boys need to be well-grounded in God’s Word.

Romans 12:2 says,
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

To withstand the enemy’s attacks, you’ve got to fight lies with truth. And the greatest of all weapons is the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God.

Question: Are you helping your son study God’s Word?

If you need help, visit Trail Life USA and RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Boys are influenced by what they see. That’s a fact.

The question is: What are they looking at throughout the day?

The answer: Their phones and other digital devices.

But what’s especially disturbing and sad is that the internet is bombarding boys with sensual and even pornographic images.

Guys may think they’re tough, but they’re no match against sexual temptation. A recent study found that 90% of teens have watched porn by age 18. Those images are destroying their ability to form lasting relationships—including a proper relationship with the Lord.

What’s your son watching on his phone? Have you installed filtering software on all digital devices? Have you had a heart-to-heart talk with him about how to resist temptation? These discussions aren’t easy, but your son is worth it.

For helpful resources, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

A furious storm rages around us. Today’s anti-Christian culture is battering all those who stand in its way. And it’s only getting worse. Public schools are increasingly hostile to biblical truth and Christian values.

In this antagonistic society, it’s easy for Christian boys to get swept away by peer pressure, sexual temptation, and the quest for riches. Don’t let these weights catch your son off guard and drown him in addiction.

Despite worldly winds and the ungodly cultural current, teach your son to stay anchored to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Studying God’s Word will keep him anchored to the Rock of his salvation.

In today’s swirling storm of bad influences, your son needs positive role models. Are you providing him an atmosphere for spiritual growth?

For more encouraging parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you live in the north, the transition from one season to the next brings dramatic weather changes. Many people enjoy fall, but winter quickly pushes it aside. Then people yearn for the warmth of spring, but that’s replaced by the heat of summer.

Seasons are a natural part of our environment. So are the seasons of our children’s lives.

As parents, we sometimes wish we could hold back time and keep our kids longer during a specific season of development.

But if we are wise, we will guide our children as they transition from one season to the next, from one area of growth to another.

For information about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Being a parent is one of the greatest joys in life. It’s also exhausting!

Whether it seems like you’ve changed a million diapers or whether you feel like a professional taxi driver for your teenage kids, each stage of life has its own challenges.

As a parent, it’s certainly your responsibility to guide and train your children. But it’s also important for you to take time to rest physically, . . . emotionally, . . . and spiritually.

In Matthew 11:28, our Savior says,
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

What a great reminder that our help comes from the Lord. We can rest in the assurance that He will strengthen us to continue on.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Did you know that 30% of teen boys use unhealthy techniques to control their weight? This includes skipping meals, vomiting, and even taking laxatives.

For parents with boys in this category, we wish there were something like 3 simple steps to help our sons escape the downward spiral of self-image and self-esteem problems. But it’s usually not that easy.

In addition to consulting doctors for help, here’s something else you should do. Remind your son that God makes no mistakes. We are His workmanship—wonderfully created in His image.

To help emphasize this fact, study the Bible with your son to learn of God’s care and compassion for us all. As you invest time and attention in your son, he will realize how valued and loved he really is.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

If you’ve got a boy in your house, you know that God made boys with lots of energy and enthusiasm.

It’s important that we provide ways for them to experience fun, excitement, and adventure—beyond the everyday routines of life.

This can sometimes be difficult at home where space is limited. That’s why finding ways for him to engage in the outdoors is so important.

And, while creating opportunities in the backyard or a local park can go a long way toward encouraging this engagement, think about creating camping and hiking experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Maybe find your way to an outdoor Christian Boys organization like Trail Life that makes this part easy!

For more tips on helping your son grow physically, mentally, and spiritually, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Have you ever played Jenga, the block-stacking game?

It’s fun taking turns stacking blocks and watching the tower grow tall. But eventually, the tower becomes unbalanced, and the blocks come tumbling down.

As a parent, don’t allow yourself to become unbalanced in life. As you go about your daily routines, avoid stacking too many obligations in your life. The higher your number of commitments, the greater the risk of wearing yourself out and failing to fulfill your most important responsibilities.

Finding that balance between work and family life can be really hard. The key, though, is determining your priorities and then pursuing only those activities that contribute toward your overall goals.

But remember, you’ll never go wrong by investing time and attention in your kids.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Here’s a trivia question: Which state has the most lighthouses? If you answered Michigan, you’re absolutely right.

In the darkness of night, lighthouses warn sailors of shallow sandbars and rocky shorelines. Without these lighthouses, many boats and sailors would crash into these obstacles and suffer great hardship and pain.

In many ways, you serve as a lighthouse to your son. As he sails through life, you are in a key position to warn him of unseen hazards. Use your own personal experiences to point him in the right direction. But make sure you also emphasize the importance of God’s Word. The Bible offers your son practical guidance in navigating the seas of life.

Help your son stay on course. For more information and parenting resources, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Social media sites have tremendous power to influence your son’s thoughts and actions.

But there’s an even more influential force in your son’s life—and that’s his friends.

Research tells us that ensuring a positive community of faith for your son is one of the best ways to shield him against negative influences and to set him up for success.

Though it’s unreasonable for you to expect your son’s friends to be perfect, they should exhibit a general attitude of respect and obedience to authority.

Do you know who your son’s friends are? Are they a good influence, or do they display destructive behaviors that are holding him back?

By helping your son know how to choose good friends, you provide an atmosphere of growth and development.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What does 100 billion of anything look like?

Astronomers estimate that our Milky Way Galaxy holds around 100 billion stars. If you counted one star per second, it would take you over 3,000 years to count those stars.

That’s incredible!

And yet, God—the master designer of billions of galaxies—loves each person more than any of those stars.

So, the next time you see your son frustrated and hurting, wrap your arms around him and give him a giant hug. Remind him that he is of tremendous value to you AND to the Almighty God of the universe.

Trials and challenges are a natural part of life, but together, you and your son can bring them to God in prayer.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.