went fishing today at Detroit Reservoir with my grandson, Jesse and a friend. It was a very nice day on the Lake in the sun catching fish, and having good fellowship. I enjoy spending time with my grandkids, especially in some kind of activity like fishing, hunting, biking, or camping. I recognize that my method of influencing my grandkids is different than when we raised our kids, but influencing them is my goal. So in order to do that pro-actively, mostly by example, I have thought through some commitments as a grandfather who wants to be used by God to make a huge difference in the lives of my grandchildren. I have written them down and call them, “The Ten Commandments of Being a Godly Grandfather”.

1. Never, ever get angry at them, not even a little, tiny bit irritated.

2. Never, ever complain, fuss, grumble, gross about anything, no matter how bad it might be, but instead always rejoice, be happy, and smile.

3. Think out loud when solving problems or overcoming obstacles, and do it with the kind of passion and “can do” attitude that a quarterback on a Super Bowl winning football team has.

4. Praise and compliment everything and anything positive in behavior, attitude, and character that I observe.

5. Give instruction in how to do things in short, simple sentences, and repeat them regularly and often until they get it.

6. Tell short stories periodically about my life and history that highlight character and commitment to Christ.

7. Ask questions of them that encourages them to talk about their faith in Christ, and growth as a Christian.

8. Ask questions that encourages them to share their values, and commitments, and /or questions that helps them form their commitments and values in life.

9. Talk to them about my goals, teach them about goal setting, and help them write their own goals and phone, email. or text weekly asking them how they are doing on their goals.

10. Pray for each grandchild daily, especially the day before a scheduled get together, and ask for wisdom in influencing them for Christ’s sake.