To My Child

Things 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 directions,
But I cannot always lead you.

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

I can take you to worship,
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 share,
But I cannot make you unselfish.

I can teach you to 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 about your sins,
But I cannot make your morals.

I can love you as my child,
But I cannot place you in Gods family. 

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.