Session 7.1
Session 7: Preparing for Mission
Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!
Let it go?
How do your goals for releasing your kids shape what you do today?
Take Aim Questions
Take some time to journal and process the questions below, they’ll help you apply parenting principles that will set you up for success.
What do you think it means to “gradually” release your children? Why is this important?
Does the idea of releasing your child into the world cause you fear or anxiety?
Think of any “release points” you’ve already faced in your child’s life. Which has been most difficult for you as a parent?
Do you think it’s important to let your children make choices that you know are unwise in order to learn life lessons?
Have you ever told your kids about a mistake you have made in your life and made it a teaching opportunity for them?
What will you do if your child’s desires for the future conflict with yours?
The Need To Know
Slow release.
- Our kids aren’t robots. They’re created by God in their own uniqueness. So we allow them freedom to explore.
- As kids age, we’re gradually releasing them to more life skills, more decisions. We empower them to greater and greater independence. Expect them to ask more questions, try new things, and push back against the rules.
- Set kids’ hearts and minds on a course of wisdom, responsibility, and service. Train them to trust and obey God.
- Allow kids the space to fail and experience the consequences of foolish choices. This can be painful!