Parenting is tough work. Anyone who argues with you has never had children.
Someone once said that when a couple has their first child, they’re able to protect their child with a two-on-one defense. Once the second child arrives, the parents are forced to move to a man-to-man defense. If the loving parents are blessed with a third little one, they’ll spend the remainder of their lives in a zone defense.
As a parent with six children of my own, I’ve always chuckled at that analogy. All laughing aside, when God trusts a child to our care, we’re given one of the most serious responsibilities we’ll ever have—raising a child to know, serve, fear, and love Christ.
I don’t know many parents who aren’t crazy about their kids. Sadly though, the burdens and busyness of daily life often quietly and subtly lull us into a tranquil and passive state of parenting. Instead of consistently painting a Biblical vision and direction for the next generation, it is so easy to coast down the road of life without our hands on the wheels of parenting. When trouble inevitably arises, it is all-to-easy to suddenly “over correct” with bursts of anger and frustration.
There must be a better way.
My oldest daughter was about three years old during one of the busiest seasons of my life. While serving a church as an associate pastor and attending seminary full time, I found that I was home less and less. One evening I affectionately told my firstborn, “I know Daddy’s been busy, but I’ll be home tonight to tuck you into bed and kiss you good night.” She peered at me with her big blue eyes and innocently said, “But Daddy, you don’t live here. You live at the office.”
Her words changed my life forever.
After significant life changes, I’m still seeking God to become the parent God wants me to be. And more so, to raise my children to become everything God wants them to be. That’s one of many reasons I’m excited about Shelter.
Jimmy Holbrook clearly understands and masterfully articulates the mandate parents have to provide a biblical shelter for children from the distractions and temptations of this world. As a parent of five children, Jimmy shares his valuable real life experiences intermingled with his years of serving faithfully as a pastor.
Some advice about families and parenting seems too lofty to achieve. Some books on this subject are difficult to follow and understand. Jimmy’s work and advice is neither. Laced with personal stories and easy to apply principles, Jimmy will challenge you, love you, and walk with you as a fellow struggling, yet faithful and sincere parent toward God’s best for your kids. His down to earth—yet scripturally rich insight—is sure to touch your heart and direct your future.
I know it has mine.
Recently I had a moment with my son Sam that I’ll treasure forever. Dreaming about his potential future, I boldly asked my budding eight year old, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Sam beamed with pride as he replied, “Daddy, I want to be what you are!”
Glowing with pride I replied happily and somewhat surprised, “You mean you want to be a pastor like Dad!” Sam shot back with great enthusiasm, “Nah! I said, ‘I want to be what you are! I want to be a great daddy one day!’”
As you prayerfully read and experience Shelter, I’m confident you’ll become even a greater mom or dad.

Craig Groeschel