Tip Thursday
More Strength in Parenting
Recently, I mentioned the need to parent strong. Adding to that this week, I'd like to mention the need to model: Deciding Strong. (We could also call this Intentional Decision Making.)
When my children came to the age when they needed to make decisions about colleges and careers, we discussed the need to make decisions based on prayer and faith, rather than on fear and whims. Of course, we know that God can use any and all methods to get His children where He wants them, but how much better if they learn to seek His will before making decisions.
For example: One of my daughters was afraid to go away to college. The decision to go or stay was not a right or wrong answer. Both were excellent options. However, to decide to stay locally out of fear, would not have been the best motivation for the decision - or for any decision.. She chose to seek and decide in faith. Then she trusted that God would lead her to the best location for her next step in her life. That was a big decision.
She could not have done that if she had not practiced praying before smaller decisions and seeing her parents pray before decisions. We often discussed praying about decisions such as buying a house, changing schools, playing sports or instruments, etc. Allow them to understand why you make decisions so that they can see you practice what you preach.
Seeking God about decisions can be another one of those most valuable gifts to give you child. Help them value seeking God and His plan for their lives. Remind them constantly that He created them for His purpose and that He has a perfect plan for their lives! Train them to pray and then listen for God's answer. Teach them the three ways to hear His voice in a decision: 1) asking for wise counsel, 2) reading scripture to see that the choices line up with God's Word, and 3) then see if the circumstances make it possible. Train them in this when they are young, watch them live in strength as they mature!
(Leave me a comment in a reply below. I love hearing from you!)
Leave a comment