SERMON ILLUSTRATION: Reflections of a Mother

Posted on August 23, 2011 by Dr. Mike Harmon

  • 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

About Dr. Mike Harmon

Dr. Harmon began preaching at the age of 15 while living in southern California. He has conducted over 600 revivals and evangelistic campaigns nationwide, and has served as Senior Pastor at seven churches. Dr. Harmon has degrees from Central Baptist College, the University of Central Arkansas, and a Ph.D. From the Christian Bible College and Seminary. He has served as trustee for Southeastern Baptist College and Chairman of the trustees for the BMA Theological Seminary. He also served as Chaplain for the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the Arkansas State Police and the Arkansas State Senate. His many sermons and articles on Christian Apologetics are widely published. He is married to one wife of 43 years; has two sons, and seven grandchildren. He considers the simple pleasures of cooking, dining with family and friends, and liesurely rides on his Harley through the Texas Hill Country to be some of the most enjoyable blessings from the Lord.
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