How am I ever going to get it all done? Have you ever said these words as the new school year is approaching? So many decisions to make, school supplies to buy, and schedules to arrange. Yet in all of that, we cannot forget our children’s spiritual growth. This is the area that needs to be the number one priority. When chaos arises, an emphasis on spiritual growth helps everything else fall into place.
What did God teach you this morning during your devotions?- What Scriptures are you reading right now?
- Is there a specific devotional that you are reading right now?
These questions can lead to some really great discussions. Asking these questions can also lead to the discovery that your teens haven’t been reading their Bibles or spending time with the Lord at all. This is where a lot of parents drop the ball and become detached. Even well-meaning parents who are bringing their children up in the church can be guilty of pulling back on their leadership when it is desperately needed. Instead, this is the time when you as a parent can become a great mentor to your teens. They are getting ready to either go back to school or start their academics from home. They need to be strong in the Spirit to help them with the struggles of life they will face.
Take the time as you are preparing for the school year to prepare for your students’ spiritual growth and not just their academics. As the Scriptures remind us, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Ephesians 6:10-11 (NKJV). As we send them off to school or begin to homeschool this year, let us remember that sending them out the door with their “spiritual clothes” on will help them more than making sure they are wearing the latest fashion.
Here are a few recommended devotionals: (this list is not exhaustive, just some that my kids loved and still talk about to this day)
For young children: The Bible in Pictures for Little Eyes
For middle schoolers: The Case for Christ for Kids
Don’t Check Your Brains at the Door
Little Pilgrims Progress
For high schoolers: Jesus Freaks
Pilgrim’s Progress
The Bible
Cynthia Schrock was born in Ohio but grew up on the mission field with her parents in Quito, Ecuador. She married her wonderful husband Eric in 1990. They have two beautiful children: Ashley is 24 and Matthew is 19. In 2016 Cynthia completed a 13 year long journey of homeschooling. Eric and Cynthia have been involved in marriage and parenting ministry for 22 years. Cynthia is a Contact Mom, helping moms with solutions in their daily parenting struggles. She has also authored a book on celebrating others called The Ultimate Gift of a Birthday.
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