Sermon Illustrations

Reflections of a parent

• I gave you life, but cannot live it for you.
• I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn.
• I can give you directions, but I cannot be there to 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 always decide for you.
• I can buy you beautiful clothes, but I cannot make you beautiful inside.
• I can offer you advice, but I cannot accept it 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 respect, but I cannot force you to show honor.
• I can advise you about friends, but cannot choose them for you.
• I can advise you about sex, but I cannot keep you pure.
• I can tell you the facts of life, but I can't build your reputation.
• I can tell you about drugs and alcohol, but I can't say "no" for you.
• I can tell you about lofty goals, but I can't achieve them for you.
• I can teach you about kindness, but I can't force you to be gracious.
• I can warn you about sins, but I cannot make you moral.
• I can love you as a child, but I cannot place you in God's family.
• I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God.