Aim for independence.
| posted 1/30/2009
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The twentysomething person looks at the world and wants to take a crack at all kinds of opportunities. But you're afraid the world's opportunities will crack your child into pieces. How can you help him avoid the mistakes you made? How can you save him the grief you've suffered?
You can't, because through those mistakes, your twentysomething will learn and become as wise as you—or even wiser. If your son or daughter wants to leave the nest, let them move away from you peaceably. If you hold on to your children too tightly, they won't feel free to come back to you if a problem arises. They'll be afraid that if they reach for your hand, you'll never let go again, or you'll scold them for leaving.
You might try a little advice now and then, but don't alienate your child. He or she needs you too badly as a friend. So give yourself about three seconds and check: Is she listening? Has he tuned you out? Should you just laugh and say, "Let me know what you decide"? (See also Ecclesiastes 11:1-12; Amos 5:6; Ezekiel 18:1-20; Amos 18:1-20; Amos 5:6-27; 1 Timothy 4:6-16.)
Good Words to Remember:
Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." Matthew 14:27
Today's Challenge:
How tightly do you hold your child's reins? How can you allow them more freedom?
Copyright 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.
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