The Sunday Mail
Everyone knows that how a child is raised determines their behavioural makeup, which is why it is important for parents to lay a solid foundation for their little ones. But knowing what needs to be done does not equate knowing how it should be done. Which is where Dr Patricia Morgan’s “How to Raise Children of Destiny” comes in. While I do not have kids of
my own, I am at that stage in life where that phase is drawing nearer, which is one of the reasons that attracted me to the book. (NB: no pressure Miss Girlfriend.)
Dr Morgan challenges every parent to raise children of destiny based on the scriptural principle that emphasises the uniqueness of every child created in God’s image. There are many influential personalities who can shape children’s perceptions, but parents should be the ones taking the leading role in moulding their kids.
“The next generation will not be fathered by persuasive pulpiteers and public orators, but by committed adults who will spend quality time with their children, imparting life both by instruction and by example,” says Dr Morgan in the introductory pages of the text.
“How to Raise Children of Destiny” is a practical guide on training children in the principles and values of the Word of God.
Much of the advice is backed up by Scripture, with Dr Morgan illustrating her points with examples of biblical children raised for specific purposes.
In the chapter titled “Your Seed: The Hope of Your Nation”, the writer highlights that the child you are raising could be the person who finds the cure for cancer, or brings prosperity to the nation.
Another chapter, “Discovering Your Child’s Destiny”, gives parental tips on how best they can guide their children to fulfil what they were created for.
“Godly parents need to discover God’s particular call for their children if they are to effectively help guide them through childhood to maturity. Mary and Joseph heard the prophetic word of the angel concerning their unique Son of promise. They evidently trained Jesus to fulfil God’s Word spoken of Him because they knew His destiny.”
Dr Morgan says God matches our children’s strengths with the nation’s current and particular needs whereby they might be destined to become national deliverers, and leaders of servants of the people, as was the case with Moses, Isaiah and Joshua.
The book is not only rich in the word of God, but also carries significant parenting lessons.
The only drawback is that Dr Morgan seems to only target Christian families, and considering there is a wide range of religious beliefs world over, many parents could be put off reading it.
However, while the book is based on Christian values, the message can be applied universally as the main thrust is good parenting.
