To My Child: What I Can and Cannot Do

I can share your life, but I cannot live it for you.

I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn.

I can give you direction, but I cannot always lead you.

I can allow you freedom, but I cannot account for it.

I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe.

I can teach you right from wrong, but I cannot decide for you.

I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you.

I can teach you to be a friend, but I cannot make you one.

I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish.

I can teach you respect, but I cannot force you to show honor.

I can tell you the facts of life, but I cannot build your reputation.

I can tell you about lofty goals, but I cannot achieve them for you.

I can teach you to obey, but I cannot answer for your actions.

I can warn you about sins, but I cannot make your morals.

I can love you as my child, but I cannot place you in God’s family.

I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God.

I can teach you about Jesus, but I cannot make Him your Savior.

I can teach you about prayer, but I cannot make you pray.

I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you eternal life.

– Author Unknown (From The Speaker’s Quote Book, Edited by Roy B. Zuck. Kregel)