Ask Fred > Family > What are important lessons for single Moms?

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Dear Fred

You, sir, are an incredible man. I regret that I have never had the pleasure of meeting you or the opportunity to be mentored by you. Thank you for your legacy and for archiving so much wisdom for those of us who follow after you. I am a single mom raising my 9 year old nephew. I am concerned that he does not have a godly father figure in his life. What are the most important lessons that I can teach him to help him become a man of God? What were the fundamental things you did to establish such a firm foundation for yourself and your children in your relationships with God? Blessings, Patti Waterbury

Fred's Response

I am so thankful when people see the iron in me rather than the clay. We all have both. Zig tells the story of the young illegitimate boy who was so embarrassed by it that he would not go out in public. But he went to church one night. The preacher put his hand on the boy’s head and asked, “Who’s son is this?” Then the preacher proceeded, “Oh, I see the family resemblance. You are a child of God.” That young man said at that moment his life changed and started him on the path that led to the position of State Governor. Assure your nephew that God is even more than an earthly father. I will make three or four suggestions: 1) teach him the authority of scripture 2) be a Christian that he will appreciate and want to emulate 3) be careful of his associations for his peers will have a great deal to do with his development 4) expect some disappointments and don’t be derailed by them. Know that God is more interested in His becoming a strong spiritual man than even you are. Trust Him with your nephew. Never forget, oak trees grow slowly. The four points that I mentioned have been effective in my own life. I tried to make them important in my personal relationship and in my relationship with our children. When people tell me that I should be proud of my children I am quick to answer, “I am not proud, I am grateful.” Our daughter, Brenda, was a single Mom who raised a son. It is hard work but the Lord will provide not only wisdom, but joy in this part of your journey.