Raising Godly Boys Minute

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. 

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.

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. Iroman 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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

Have you ever walked across a rickety bridge and wondered if it could manage the weight?If you are 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 the 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 the truth to have its full impact, otherwise, you are just breaking bridges.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.

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.

“Sit still!”These words are a death sentence to a little boy's morale. There are times when boys need to sit still, like at a dentist's office. But much of the time we demand they sit still for our convenience, not their good. At home when families read or at school during lessons, boys are told to bottle up their God-given energy and focus. They run the risk of getting in trouble when they don't. This is unfair, especially in light of simple solutions.When you read with your son, let him fidget with something or even pace the room. If he can't sit still, take him outside a few minutes to play and try again. Don't demand their attention without giving them an outlet for their energy.For more encouragement and parenting advice, 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.