Developing godly character in our children is the driving force behind Christian home education. The Bible says you will know true Christians by their fruit. I remember when I first became a believer at the age of 24 years, I was quite interested in who was the real deal. It seemed the media had firmly imbedded in my mind the idea that Christians were hypocrites.

Then when I came into the Church and met the Lord Jesus and His saints, I began to see that imbedded idea was a lie. There was a bumper sticker that I identified with. It said, "Christians aren't perfect, they are forgiven." That was my experience in the church. The love of God was there in His people for me. It wasn't the judgmental place I had imagined. I was forgiven by Jesus and loved by His people. I was drawn in by His love and mercy.

Then there is the mighty hand of God that prunes those whom He loves that we would bear much fruit, talked about in John 15:1-2

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."

By accepting the discipline of the Lord in my life, I was able to discipline my children with greater confidence, knowing it would produce a godly result in their lives.

The definition of "character" refers especially to moral qualities, ethical standards, principals and the like. The focus in our public schools today has left the students in a moral vacuum. That is why Christian parents are heeding the call to teach their children. In years past the character ethic as the foundation of success dominated our society. That character ethic is what the home school parent desires to instill in their children today. Things like integrity, humility, fidelity, temperance, courage, justice, patience, industry, simplicity, modesty, and the Golden Rule. Tim Kimmel wrote a book that explores this topic called: "Raising Kids for True Greatness."

The focus of our society has gone astray from this model. Children are noted for their outward appearance, giftedness, athletic ability, or intelligence. Home schooling is a grass roots movement of Christianity emerging in the home with the emphasis on knowing Christ. Godly character is developed in children by parents committed to this calling. It is very hard work to train children in moral character. Dr. Raymond Moore who started the home schooling movement said it is accomplished 3 ways: diligent training by the parent in academics, doing chores and service to others In 1 Thessalonians 4: 11 This goal is plainly laid out to us. "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders."