Parenting Teens: Start Letting Go
Monday, June 19, 2023
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV
Thoughts for Today
Is there a teenager in the house?
Teenagers are at a difficult age because they are no longer children and resent being treated as such. Yet they still have some of the same needs for security, love, attention, and learning they had when they were younger. Although they are not yet adults (but often feel they are), they want to be treated as such. They probably have many fears and apprehensions about adulthood. This is an ambivalent age. They may draw close to you on one occasion, only to push away a few days - or minutes - later.
Consider this …
How do you feel about your teen's approaching independence? Do you fear it? Look forward to it?
If you are fearing it, think about possible reasons. Are you looking to your child to meet your own need for value? If so, you are probably viewing the approaching independence with fear and regret. If you are experiencing this kind of fear, you will likely hold on, perhaps in an unhealthy manner.
On the other hand, if you have prepared your child well and have outside interests yourself, you will likely look forward to seeing your teenager mature into a responsible adult. This week we will have a look at finding balance in letting go … keeping the doors of communication open … and other challenges you may be facing as the parent of a teen. God is with you. Trust him to guide you through the maze of adolescence.
Prayer
I need your help, Lord. Please give me wisdom and strength to guide my teenager. He is going through so many changes, facing new challenges and temptations. Help me find balance in letting go as he finds his way into adulthood. I pray he will seek you above all else.
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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