"Teach a youth about the way he should go; even when he's old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6
".. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15
Even if your kids went on to rebel later, don't let them go without you knowing that you firmly planted seeds that God could use to bring about a harvest in their lives down the road. They are your kids, and you are still their spiritual authority in their lives. They will thank you later, and at bare minimum -- they will see and feel the love you have given them now.
How do I disciple my kids? I'm not good at speaking or teaching! Just set the stage for God to show up, know you are still their spiritual authority in their lives, and expect God to honor and bless and use your time together with them. You're on sacred ground, my friends-- you just asked the Most High God to be with you and your kids. "For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of the Father speaking through you." Matthew 10:20
Kids are hungrier than you know and they need the joy of the Lord.
Set the Stage-- you're simply the facilitator that puts everything into perspective for the main act to appear- and that's God. Go to their favorite restaurant, go to that park they like and sit on that bench, go for a ride on an ATV and stop in that beautiful spot in the country - but just set the stage.
When you're doing all you're doing, don't get too upset if they are disinterested. Remember, you're planting seeds. They aren't meant to grow up all at once. There is a waiting period to take place. They are meant to plant, then water, fertilize, pull weeds-- then watch them finally grow. Also remember, God has the show- you just set up for the act. It's so comforting to know it's not all on us, isn't it?!
My daughter is a middle-schooler and she loves Star Buck's coffee shops. I want her to feel loved while we go over Bible time together so we go where I know we can bond well. Sometimes she gets more interested in chatting with me than the actual Bible story itself. However, I let her go on and chat a bit because I want her to want this time and to enjoy this time. I want her to seek discipleship when she's older even if it's not me. Eventually, I will get her back on track and make sure the seeds are planted or watered properly.
Ask God for wisdom, discernment, or knowledge to know what their hearts might be going through that you should bring up in the discipleship time. Perhaps it's not that they're going through something but maybe/also seek God about where they are now and where they need to go next on their walks with God.
I love you all and want to pray for you before you go.
Lord, thank you for our precious gift of Spiritual authority You've given us in our household and over these precious kids. Let us steward this well and not be too harsh or overbearing with our kids. Anoint your servants for such a time as this- to steward their own children and handle their own authorities well. Give your servants the words to speak to these children. You are our God and thank you Lord for all You are going to do through us and in our children's lives! In Jesus' name. Amen.
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