They Are Watching

It seems like our children are growing up at a very accelerated and, sometimes unhealthy, rate. Whether it is a combination of the time in which we are living, social media, non-stop schedules or a combination of all three, kids aren't being given the opportunity to just be kids. As parents and mentors (coaches, teachers and pastors) serving as role models, it is important that we remember how impressionable young people are. They are seeking guidance and direction, both of which are desperately needed. It has been proven over and over that children do better with structure, loving correction and lessons on what it means to be accountable.

Proverbs 27:23 gives us an interesting perspective on the unique relationship between parent (mentor) and child, Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds. Although this particular scripture can take on several meanings, it certainly speaks to the responsibility a parent or mentor has when speaking into the lives of children. Notice the writer of this verse tells us to not only be aware of what is going on in the lives of our children, such as who are they hanging out with, what types of relationships are they building on social media and who are they building them with, current successes and challenges as well as how they are feeling about themselves and life in general. We are to also attend their needs. To be clear, this does NOT mean we are supposed to give children everything they want or desire. In fact, a vital part of "tending" to our children is to help them learn to go without or be told no. These coping skills are necessary as we prepare them for life.

In addition, we also need to model what mature behavior looks like in both our actions or speech. When a child acts out, it is very common that they are mirroring the parents or mentors in their lives. Whether it be our interactions in person with other adults, our posts on social media or the way in which we are acting on the sidelines or bleachers, how can we possibly expect a child to act like Jesus would want them to if we aren't?

Children crave positive role models in their lives. How we conduct ourselves as parents and mentors will have a lasting impact on who they are now and who they will become later in life. Whether is it your child or a young person who looks to you for guidance, we have the awesome opportunity and responsibility to show them Jesus...

Pastor Aaron