One of the most frequently asked questions is “How do we raise our kids to love Jesus?” I love teachable parents and I want to give a few keys from God’s Word concerning this topic. Cindy and I are passionate about our children and we believe that Anna, Evan, Sara and KJ are the report card of our spiritual life.
Tip #1 Make Disciples
Don’t try to make a best friend…make a disciple that will impact the world for Jesus Christ!
Tip #2 Lead Them
There is a huge difference between keeping your kids “under control” or “controlling and leading” your kids. Strive to lead and control, which promotes confidence. SECRET…the inner needs of your child are Security, Significance, Strength
Tip #3 Be A Unified Front
Unity in discipline and decisions for your children is a MUST. Don’t be “the cool” dad who says, “you better not be doing that when mom gets home”. Being one in marriage is demonstrated while raising your children.
Tip #4 Communicate
Talk about everything! Sex (at the appropriate age), friends, school, ball, God and more. Never ask a question of your child that can be answered with a yes or no answer. Also, join Facebook and find out what your child is discussing with their friends.
Tip #5 Say No to Permissive Parenting
You and your child are not equal. Don’t let them lead the home, food choice, whether you go to church or not, calendar, or anything else. Be intentional as you parent your children!
We will be discussing this all week. Parenting is becoming a lost art in the church and we have to change it! What tip would you add to this parenting list?
Aaron Stevens says,
One thing I have used with my son and I do with the boys I work with at the Arkansas Baptist Boys Ranch is that when discussing “why” things have to be certain ways, I always try to defer to scripture. God has placed many guidelines that, when followed, will lead us to the best life possible. If we demostrate a reliance on and a reverence for God’s direction in our own lives and constantly use His precepts as a guide in our parenting (including helping our own children to make wise decisions) they will have this later in life at times we will not be there to stop bad decisions.
Gods laws and guidelines are practical. Financially, sexually, spiritually, it is all very practical. That applies to the intelect. However, we also have to remember God is God, and we need to follow his precepts regardless of the desire to be practical.
on 28 June 2010 / 8:40 AM