As my girls are getting older, (Alycia 19 and Rebecca 17) I am finding that Debbie and I have to always be on the look out for those little opportunities to let them make their own decisions. They might ask us for “permission” when in reality they are looking for “approval”.
I guess it would just be easy to let them know how Debbie and I feel. But we have to make the effort not to do that (in some things). They are at the point where it has to be how they feel or think. Our prayer is that they will wait for God’s approval first then discern what His will is. Wow! Did that come from me? The Dad who just wants my kids to always ask me (or Mom) before they act?
The truth is, this is something we all have to work out with our kids from day one. We as parents need to constantly be looking for those times to let go and allow our children to find the voice of God in their own way.
Start now! Don’t wait! King Josiah became king of Judah at the age of eight and in the eighteenth year of his rule, Josiah ordered the High Priest Hilkiah to use the tax money, which had been collected over the years to renovate the temple. It was during this time that Hilkiah discovered the Book of the Law. Josiah encouraged the exclusive worship of Yahweh and outlawed all other forms of worship. (2 Kings 23)
Now, I’m sure as a young boy he had many people telling him what to do, but at some point Josiah learned to stand up for what was right in the eyes of God no matter what anyone else told him.
Parent, be encouraged today as you raise your children, they are capable of not only hearing God’s voice but doing His will. Our job is to help them identify His voice, help them discern His will and train them in the way God designed them. You can do it Mom and Dad! God handpicked you for the job!
Blessings,
