I say it all the time, “I’ve learned more about parenting from my children than anyone else.” The older I get the more I cherish my time with my children. As I spend time with them and as I see the children of other parents grow into adulthood, I am reminded how much children need guidance and direction. In the last few years, I see why kids should not be “left to themselves” as I see what they wear, listen to, who they associate with, and the questions they ask. Amy says all the time to our kids when we say, “no” to an outfit, a movie, or event, “God gave you to us to raise and make decisions that are good for you!”
I count it a blessing to be the father of a twenty year old and nineteen year old. I can’t think of a more challenging, but rewarding job. I struggle with the speed at which our children have grown in terms of age, but thankful for their emotional & spiritual development. I sometimes long for the days of “sippy cups” and playing on the swing. Each generation deals with a new set of challenges that require parents to be a “chapter ahead.” I struggle with parenting, but I know God gives us a roadmap. It’s up to us to follow it! Consider these thoughts:
Both parents are responsible for their children. God tells us in Deuteronomy 6:7 we must teach our children God’s commands, “You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” We are the primary teachers of our children. Our words and actions must match as we instruct our kids in the direction God wants them to go.
Seek council from older members of the Lord’s church. We see examples of leaders asking advice in 1 Kings 12:6, “Then King Rehoboam consulted the elders who stood before his father Solomon while he still lived, and he said, “How do you advise me to answer these people?” Older Christians are valuable resources when raising children. I have received the best advice from mature Christians who exhibit the scars of life. They want to help!
We must provide the guard rails. Today’s culture permeates & permits abortion, alcohol, dishonesty, drugs, homosexuality, immodesty, lying, pornography, over stimulation of the mind, and a disconnect from our Creator! Christian parents will turn to God’s plan for parenting, not man’s desire for satisfaction (Proverbs 14:12). Let us remember, “What we permit, we promote.”
