Parenting Adults: Time to Let Go
Friday, August 6, 2021
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it." Proverbs 22:6 NLT
Thoughts for Today
You might be thoroughly enjoying having your adult child back home with you for a while. This unexpected time together can indeed be a wonderful experience. However, it is important for you to realize that this is a temporary situation and not try to prolong it. The Bible clearly teaches that we are to teach our children the right path when they are young and that they will stay on that path when they are older and living independently.
Do you have any feelings of emotional dependence on your child, so that you might encourage his continuing to live with you rather than resuming his independent living at the earliest possible moment? If you recognize this tendency in yourself, confess to God and ask for his help and guidance.
Consider this . . .
It is much easier to "let go" when you focus on the direction God is calling you to, rather than building your life around your child. You will find it helpful to develop hobbies and interests of your own. Build relationships with people in your church and community. Attend a Bible study group. Do some volunteer work. Full-time or part-time work might be another option.
Prayer
Father, I realize that I've been building my life too much around my child. It's been so good to have him home that I find myself looking for reasons for him to stay longer, rather than encouraging his independence and those things that are best for him. Please forgive me and guide me in the way I should go. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from . . . Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age.
Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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