Preacher on the Run…

Kids grow up so fast, it feels like just yesterday were the sleepless nights and endless supplies of diapers and baby wipes. As someone once told us, “The days are long, but the years are short”. An airline stewardess told us that. I think she saw the dark circles under our eyes and the exhaustion in our gaze. Parenting isn’t for the faint of heart. And I’m only 11 years in, which means I’m entering quite possibly the most difficult season of parenting – the teen years.

However, in contrast to how many talk about the teenage years, these are the years my wife and I have looked forward to the most. We’ve always had a heart for that stage of life. If childhood growth was fast, the teen years would be like adding HGH to someone’s diet. But that is the fun of this stage, the growth of our children will skyrocket over the next few years. With that comes the potential for disastrous explosions as well. This is why many parents enter the teen years with fear and trepidation.

Instead of entering the teen years completely afraid, what if we engaged these years with curiosity? As parents, our kids need us in their lives. Even if they don’t say it, they want it. But how we engage them in these years is what makes all the difference. Instead of having all the answers and seeking to control everything, what if we came with curiosity – about our kids, their world, and bigger issues also. What if instead of talking to them, we talk with them. Not in numerous disjointed conversations, but with one ongoing conversation. This is what Axis’ resource “This One Conversation Could Change the Way You Parent Forever” is so good. Check out the video and discussion questions to dive in more.

What about you? How did/do you view the teenage years of parenting? If you are already past this stage of parenting, share a tip you found helpful. If you are currently there, share a challenge you are currently facing. If you are not yet there, what’s one thing you are anxious about? I love to hear from my readers, but want to engage as a community as well. So leave a comment below, chat with each other, and as always be with the Lord’s people on the Lord’s Day.

Until Next Time…