I gave you life 
but I can't live it for you.

I can teach you things 
but I can't make you learn.

I can give you directions 
but I can't always be there to lead you.

I can allow you freedom 
but I can't account for it.

I can take you to church 
but I can't make you believe.

I can teach you right from wrong 
but I can't make you choose.

I can buy you beautiful clothes 
but I can't make you lovely inside.

I can offer you advice 
but I can't accept it for you.

I can give you love 
but I can't force it upon you.

I can teach you to share 
but I can't make you unselfish.

I can teach you respect 
but I can't force you to show honor.

I can advise you about friends 
but I can't choose them for you.

I can advise you about sex
but I can't keep you pure.

I can tell you the facts of life 
but I can't prevent you from using them.

I can tell you about drink 
but I can't say NO for you.

I can tell you about drugs 
but I can't prevent you from using them.

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 can't make you moral.

I can love you as a child 
but I can't place you in God's family.

I can pray for you 
but I can't make you walk with God.

I can teach you about Jesus 
but I can't make Him your Savior.

I can teach you to obey 
but I can't make Jesus your Lord.

I can tell you how to live 
but I can't give you eternal life.

Unknown Source