Raising Passionate Jesus Followers by Phil & Diane Comer

This may well be the best book I have read on Christian parenting. It answers so many questions and is full of biblical and practical instruction.

We live our lives intentionally, planning and making lists. Yet we think we can raise godly children without doing so intentionally. Shepherding a child to a godly adulthood does not just automatically happen. The Comer's provide the theological basis for intentional parenting as well as suggestions for developing a parenting plan that is effective and doable.

I am impressed with the biblical foundation they lay. For example, they reference Luke 2:52 and outline the three areas to intentionally focus on: character development, relationship building, and spiritual training. The tools they employ are also based on a biblical basis, such as 2 Timothy 4:2.

The Comers walk readers through the growth stages, giving practical suggestions along the way. They have insights into guiding the strong willed child. They advocate really knowing each child and how that shapes parenting techniques. They clarify the difference between punishment and discipline. They help readers to know what to do if they've parented in a wrong way so far. And perhaps my favorite emphasis is that parents must themselves be passionate followers of Jesus and model that behavior.

The Comers share how they formed their own vision of raising disciples for generations. That vision shaped their parenting goals and even determined which television programs they watched. Knowing that one plan does not work for all families, they help readers develop their own parenting visions and plans.

I highly recommend this book to parents and potential parents. You will find within its covers a wealth of information and practical help in raising godly adults.

My rating: 5/5 stars.

Phil and Diane Comer founded Westside: A Jesus Church (Solid Rock) in Portland, Oregon. They also went on to launch INTENTIONAL: Raising Passionate Jesus Followers conferences. They have been married for nearly forty years and have four grown children and a number of grandchildren. You can find out more at https://www.intentionalparents.org/.

Zondervan, 304 pages.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Handlebar. My comments are an independent and honest review.