Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. Philippians 3:17
I have a confession. I had a really bad habit.
I had slid into the habit of checking my phone at stop lights. Just a quick peek to make sure I wasn’t missing anything vital. So many reasons why this had to stop immediately, one of the best being that I have two teenaged drivers. I know, what a horrible example for my kids.
Our kids are imitating us. Is our walk the type that we hope they will follow?
As this school and ministry year launch, what is the example you will set for your kids? They are watching you. They see how consistent you are with spiritual practices, they see how you put away or don’t put away your phone at dinner, and they see how full you book your calendar.
The answer to most tough parenting questions is to lead by example. How are you doing in these three areas?
1.Spiritual Practices
What is a plan that helps you be more consistent and you can realistically see yourself doing this year?
Would a Bible Study group or accountability partner help? Some people need a relational component to their spiritual walk. Talking with others about how they connect with God and are wrestling with their faith fosters growth and consistency in their life.
2.Technology
Are there any patterns related to screens that would be good for you to evaluate?
Take your phone for example. Maybe you’ve fallen into the habit of checking it throughout dinner. You could consider leaving it in another room for one dinner a week. Every Sunday could be phone-free dinner. What example are you setting for your kids in your own technology use?
3.Time
Is your calendar so booked, running from one commitment to the next, that it is hard for you to be patient with your kids?
Do you find you are often scrambling to find that school assignment, Cubbies handbook, soccer cleat? Maybe it is worth looking at the margins you create throughout your day, week, and month.
Is there an area that you know you want to shift this year? Now is the time to develop a plan for that area. Don’t get to the end of the year and regret not making that change.
I know I’m throwing a lot at you.
Don’t focus on all the areas you wish you were different. We all have lots of stuff we would change. Start small with one area and one idea.
Get the whole family on-board.
Have a family meeting before school and Awana start this year. Figure out together one thing you’d like to do a little differently this year as a family and make a plan to get it done. Ready, Set, Go!
