Special Replay | Best Ways To Nurture Relationships With Your Child

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Let’s Talk About the Best Ways To Nurture Relationships With Your Child

Podcast Title: best way to nurture relationships with your child

Special Replay | Podcast # 157

The experts are in the house!

We will learn about the best ways to nurture relationships with your child! S

Whether you have one child or multiple children, we all want a good relationship with our kids. We want children who grow up wonderful, happy, and settled in life – and what better way than beginning their journey at home. In this broadcast, we discuss some tips as well as some ideas.

with Felice Gerwitz and Special Guests – Israel and Brook Wayne ~ Family Renewal … and Hal and Melanie Young ~ Making Biblical Family Life Practical

Special SponsorMedia Angels, Inc. – by homeschool moms for homeschool moms

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Show Notes: Best Ways To Nurture Relationships With Your Child

Felice Gerwitz – Tips on the Best Ways To Nurture Relationships with your child

  1. Your relationship with your spouse (single parents – your relationship with the Lord)
  2. Love your kids enough to do what you need to do
  3. Be available
  4. Threatening and repeating parent
  5. Be the type of parent you wish you had

Israel and Brook Wayne – Tips on the Best Ways To Nurture Relationships with your child

Authors of “Pitchin’ A Fit” 

  1. Bring your child close to you when you discuss issues
  2. Correct in a different environment like outdoors on swings (Brook explains this on the audio)

Hal and Melanie Young – Tips on the Best Ways To Nurture Relationships with your child

  1. Little ones are real people
  2. Listen and interact
  3. Show delight
  4. Parenting styles change as they age
  5. Teens – talk them through
  6. Authentic praise
  7. Need to be there for them
  8. God gave us these children – He’ll provide
  9. Pray, repent, and apologize when needed – we all mess up

Photo credit – DepositPhoto.com All Rights Reserved. Copyright Wavebreakmedia

Valentine’s Day on a Budget – MBFLP 288

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Like it or not, February 14 is just around the corner. Maybe you’ve got big plans, but maybe you don’t have the funds for a romantic getaway. With eight kids and a limited budget, we’ve been there! This episode we’re talking about ways to make the most of the holiday without spending a fortune!

Why Celebrate Anyway?

The Bible describes several holidays which were instituted by God for the people of Israel. When they gathered to celebrate Passover, the Feast of Weeks, or the Feast of Tabernacles, the Jews were to take the occasion to remember God’s blessings in history and the present.

The holiday of Purim was created by the people themselves, to memorialize the nation’s deliverance from genocide (as recorded in the book of Esther). Even though it’s not a pilgrimage festival like the ones God commanded, the Bible does record the celebration of Purim in favorable terms. It’s easy to draw parallels to our own holidays, like the Fourth of July to celebrate our nation’s independence, or Thanksgiving to remember God’s blessings. They’re not mandated by Scripture but they are opportunities to talk about God’s working and God’s gifts.

Valentine’s Day may be low on the priority list, as “holy days” go, but we think it’s a good time to think about our relationship with our mate and to enjoy some time to focus on one another. It’s like birthdays and anniversaries, but everyone celebrating the same day! We hope you have a good one –

(resources follow … )

Some Resources You May Find Interesting

Valentine’s resources including conversation starters (as mentioned in the program)

Our weekly email “LoveBirdSeeds”

Love poetry from the Bible

Special Replay: What To Do About Sibling Relationships?

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Sibling relationships. Sibling rivalries. Siblings fighting. We put out the question to our listeners and they responded with story after story of siblings who know how to tease, fight and use sarcasm like professionals.Special Replay:  We received a message on the HomeschoolingIRL Facebook page that said, “Please, please, please do an episode on siblings fighting. Thanks!”

Sibling relationships. Sibling rivalries. Siblings fighting. We put out the question to our listeners and they responded with story after story of siblings who know how to tease, fight and use sarcasm like professionals.

On this episode, we dig into the topic of parenting through sibling relationships in your homeschool. Fletch and Kendra open up about their own family and share practical advice for handling those tricky, sticky moments when brothers and sisters want to be anything but best friends. We also announce our coffee contest winner and we each answer the question: “What Ben/Jerry’s ice cream flavor would you create and what would you call it?”

Music clips used on this show:

“George Street Shuffle” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Three Little Birds, Ziggy Marley (Click on link to purchase)

Pick A Little/Talk A Little, The Music Man (Click on link to purchase)


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

 

Building a Family Culture – MBFLP 278

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

You can feel it when you walk in the door – families have a particular culture or personality! Whether intentional or not, every home will develop its own manner of living and interacting. The question is – how can you encourage a healthy family culture that will strengthen as it goes on? How can you avoid a negative, or even toxic, family life that drags everyone down?

Resources We Mentioned

Sonya Shafer at Simply Charlotte Mason

Podcast Episodes:

“Potty Mouth” – A Big Deal, or Not?“What should I do about my kids’ ‘potty mouth’?” asked a young father in our church. Learning appropriate behavior and speech patterns is part of socialization, but is there a bigger issue than being “socially acceptable”?

Encouraging More Edifying SpeechThe Bible says a lot about the power of the tongue – the question for us is, how do we train and encourage our families to speak in a more gracious and edifying way, when the culture around us grows more unkind and profane every day?

Raising Kids to Love Their SiblingsIs sibling rivalry just something to expect? Is it a foregone conclusion that our kids are going to be simmering with jealousy, rivalry, and unkindness toward one another? Or is there a way to promote friendship and affection between brothers and sisters? We have eight kids, and while they’ve had their moments of conflict, we’ve been blessed to see them grow in genuine love as they’ve matured. How can we foster this sort of relationship in the home?

Name-Calling and Why It’s ImportantSticks and stones … right? We’ve all heard that, and probably told our kids that one time or another. Yet name-calling is not only a plague of childhood, it’s actually a problem throughout life … and we adults are warned by Christ Himself to be wary of the temptation! This episode, we look at what the Bible says about a deceptively simple and “harmless” practice that can trip us up when we least expect it!

 

We Joined the Thirty-Percent Club!

We recently finished three events in Alaska (Sterling, Anchorage, and Fairbanks) and recorded this episode in a cabin between Fairbanks and Anchorage. It’s an amazing state!

Locals told us that only 30% of visitors actually get a clear view of Denali – but we did! We took this picture from Talkeetna, about sixty miles away. The day before, you couldn’t see any mountains whatsoever – the weather just covered that whole 20,000-foot peak. We consider ourselves blessed to get a sighting on our first trip – some people visit for years and never see it.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

We’ll be speaking at three major conferences in the coming weeks:

Be sure to stop by our booth and say hi!

Finding a Mate – MBFLP 232

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finding a Mate

Does the Bible give us guidance on finding a mate? Of course – but it’s not as detailed as some of the more recent advice we’ve all heard. This episode we’re talking about some unmistakable – and non-negotiable – things the Scriptures tell us about guys and girls in relationship … but keeping in mind some things the Bible doesn’t say, too!

What’s non-negotiable?

Here are a few principles we think are clear:

Respect for parents – The Fifth Commandment is to “Honor your father and your mother,” and it’s repeated in both Testaments (Exodus 20:12 and Matthew 15:4, for example). Parents have experience and wisdom, and a young lover is well-advised to seek that wisdom out! Besides, they are probably a little more objective about the object of their child’s affection and may be able to raise an issue that’s being overlooked. (We do make a distinction, though, between the commandment to honor parents – aimed at all of us, at any age – versus commandments to obey parents, which are aimed specifically at children. Note the apostle Paul uses both words in Ephesians 6:1-3 but only to children in Colossians 3:20)

(more following …)

Some thoughts and advice about finding a mate ...

Sexual holinessFor this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; … For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness. (1 Thessalonians 4:3, 7) The New Testament is full of warnings against sexual immorality, and specifically against fornication in many places. The ancient world thought it wasn’t a big deal and much of our own world thinks the same – but the Bible says they’re wrong.

Friendship with honor
– When the apostle Paul counseled the young pastor Timothy, he told him to threat younger women in the church “as sisters, with all purity.” (1 Timothy 6:2) There is space for friendship between unmarried singles, with that proviso – to be careful of virtue and reputation, just like you would toward a beloved sibling.

For believers – Don’t date unbelievers. Marriage was created by God for all of humanity, and it is open for all, but the Bible warns against becoming too intimate with someone who doesn’t share your faith (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). This passage is not talking about when one spouse becomes a Christian after the marriage – look at 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 for that situation. But we shouldn’t start out with that sort of uneven spiritual relationship.

As for the rest of the advice …

So much of the other advice we hear has to be balanced against clear Scripture, culture, circumstance, and practical application. Much family life teaching comes from Old Testament examples and illustrations – wisdom that isn’t expressed as commandment. Regulations about marrying a captive of war, official recommendations for elopement, and examples of marrying two sisters – at the same time – are there in the narrative. They have to be understood in context!

So in all seriousness, we do encourage our young people to find friendships with the opposite sex, in all purity, and consider the question of deeper relationships and marriage with both godly caution and godly cheerfulness!


Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor -Overcomer Movie

Life changes overnight for coach John Harrison when his high school basketball team’s state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant in town suddenly shuts down and hundreds of families begin moving away, John must come to grips with the challenges facing his family and his team. Urged by the school’s principal to fill-in and coach a sport he doesn’t know or like, John is frustrated and questioning his worth… until he crosses paths with a student struggling with her own journey.
Filled with a powerful mix of faith, a twist of humor, and a ton of heart, the Kendrick Brothers return to theaters with OVERCOMER, their newest feature following FACING THE GIANTS, FIREPROOF, COURAGEOUS, and the #1 box-office hit, WAR ROOM. The inspiring family film stars Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, Shari Rigby, Cameron Arnett, and introduces Aryn Wright-Thompson.

Opening nationwide on August 23, OVERCOMER dares to leave you filled with hope, inspired to dream, and asks the question: what do you allow to define you?

Click here to learn more!


Help! My Daughter is Getting Married

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #088, Help! My Daughter’s Getting Married, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Help! My Daughter’s Getting Married

In “Help! My Daughter’s Getting Married,” episode #088, Meredith Curtis talks to Moms of newly engaged couples who wonder what on earth they need to do next and over the next
few months to help their daughter pull off a wedding, since most wedding coordinators are
mothers of the bride. From the practical to the relational, you will receive wisdom from a
Mom whose coordinated two weddings so far.

 

 

 


Powerline Productions Bible Studies

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

You just found out!

Celebrate, invest emotionally, make a plan with the couple

Money

Make a Budget

Avoid Debt

Priorities (What matters most? What do you want to remember?)

Venue

Choose, Reserve, Downpayment for

Venues/Choose Date

Ceremony—Church, Garden, Other?

Reception—Fellowship Hall,

More Things to Line Up

Pastor/Premarital Counseling

Caterer or Do Food Self

Photographer

Clothing: Wedding Gown, Girl’s Dresses, Guys Tuxes

Bride & Groom Choose Support Team (wedding party)

Mom, you choose your support team because usually the wedding coordinator is you!

Decorations

What “feel” do you want?

Start a Pinterest

Details

Plan Ceremony/Itinerary

Plan Reception/Itinerary

Emcee

Music

Invitations

Photographer

Bridal Registry

Shower

Bridesmaid Luncheon

Resources

Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner by Meredith CurtisBefore the Vows are Made - Premarital Counseling Workbook for Engaged Couples by Pastor Mike and Meredith CurtisReal Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & FamilyGod's Girls 103: Courship, Marriage, and the Christian Family High School Class

How to Care for Aging Parents

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #086, How to Care for Aging Parents with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio NetworkHow to Care for Aging Parents

In “How to Care for Aging Parents,” episode #086, Meredith Curtis encourages homeschooling parents whose parents are aging and needing their help and care. Sharing her own story, Meredith explains how to make wise choices, deal with the emotional turmoil, and make the most of a challenging time in your homeschool adventure. God has a plan! He also has enough grace to meet every need!

 

 

 

 


High School Curriculum by Powerline Productions

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

The arm of the Lord to protect Mom

Long years of sickness/Arriving at Hospital to see Dad, Grandmother in ER

Vacation at Ron Jon

Caught Between Two Worlds

Older woman caring for parents vs. young mom homeschooling children

Needing Momma & Daddy

Our Experience

What are the majors? Bare bones homeschooling, Seven R’s

Read, math, write, then add rest

Teachable moments at hospital

Greatest lesson—honoring parents

Unable to do it on own, learning to rely on the Lord

Grace, Always need Him, but can be self-sufficient

Receive forgiveness

Example of God’s Protection: Windshield I-95

Encouragement

Youcan’t do everything

Find God’s Priorities

Stay Cheerful—Glad Game

Perfusely Thank Children

Receive Help

Have Folks Pray for You

Major on Majors/Minor on Minors

 

Resources

Seven R's of Homeschooling by Meredith CurtisLovely to BeholdJesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith CurtisA Wise Woman Builds by Meredith Curtis

 

Don’t Waste Your Life

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #085, Don't Waste Your Life with Meredith Curtis, on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Don’t Waste Your Life

 

In “Don’t Waste Your Life,” episode #085, Meredith Curtis challenges teens to drop out the dull and routine to live a life worth living. She addresses lies that keep us from living joy-filled lives and how to exchange half-hearted hanging on for abundant zeal and passion. A life worth living is possible at 15 and at 50 if the desire is in your heart. So, shake off the dust, and let’s move on to the adventure God has for us!

 

 

 

 


PLP Ad - Galatians 5:22-23

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

Dull, Drudgery, Naps, & Video Games vs. A Life Worth Living!

My Story

Rebellion

Repentance

Rebirth

Real Living

Drawing Close to God

Pressing In

Pressing On

With All Your Heart

Overcoming Obstacles

Internet

The Opposite Sex

Gossip, Negative Talk

Self-Pity

Wrong Friends

Battle Ready

Spiritual Weapons

The Battle in the Mind

Standing Firm in Who You are in Christ

You are LOVED!

A Life Worth Living

Tell People about Jesus

Challenge Friends to Grow in the Lord

Serve

Healthy Relationships

Zeal/Passion/Energy

Outlets for Emotion: Music/Art/Poetry

HARD WORK:  Projects/Chores/Home Business

Family Ministry

J.O.Y.

 

Resources

Real Men 101: Godly ManhoodGod's Girls Brand New Life Bible StudyJoyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith CurtisReal Men 103: Leadership

 

25 Movies Families Can Watch Together

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio, Podcast #084, 25 Movies Families Can Watch Together, with Meredith Curtis, on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

25 Movies Families Can Watch Together

In “25 Movies that Families Can Watch Together,” episode #084, Meredith Curtis shares some of her family’s favorite movies and how they have impacted their lives and hearts. From faith builders to tear-jerkers, these movies have made us laugh and cry. Each of these movies also lead to great family discussions right after or days later. Some of them (like Cars) bring an historical time to life. Others impart a life lesson or just make us laugh.

 

 

 

 


Powerline Productions, Inc. Families Learning Together American History Books

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

Our Family Movie Nights

Movies often lead to discussions afterward or even weeks/months later.

Chariots of Fire

This is the story of Eric Liddell, a gold medal winner in the 1924 Olympics. His devotion to the Lord is exempliary and inspiring! The movie also follows another runner who must overcome anti-Semetic prejudice in his quest for winning.

This awarding winning movie (Academy Award for Best Picture) was released in 1981.

Return to the Hiding Place

One of my favorite movies, Return to the  Hiding Place is set in the Netherlands during Nazi occupation of World War II. Here is the rest of the story of Corrie ten Boom and her band of teenage resisters. This does have some scary scenes so will not be appropriate for  young children.

***** Teens and Adults/Might be too scary for youngers kids

The Ultimate Gift

Billionaire Grandpa Red dies and dispenses some of his money to his children, but leaves a series of “gifts” for his wild living grandson. I love this movie! In fact, I require watching it for my Economics, Finances, and Business course in high school.

Facing the Giants

In Facing the Giants, we meet Coach Grant Taylor whose life is full of problems and pain. When Grant makes a decision to fully surrender to Jesus, things happen! The Kendrick brothers and Sherwood pictures have produced an awesome sports movie! This is one of my all-time favorite movies.

Anne of Green Gables & Anne of Avonlea (PBS 1980s)

Set on Prince Edward Island, Anne is a little orphan girl with bright red hair adopted by an older brother (Matthew) and sister (Marilla) who run the family farm. She brings life to her new family and the entire village of Avonlea. You will love these movies!

The Princess Bride

This movie is just for fun because it is a totally silly fairy tale released in the 1980s. We repeat so many funny lines from this romantic comedy that you almost have to see this movie to understand our family. A farm boy falls in love with a beautiful maiden and goes off to seek his fortune, but he is kidnapped by the dreaded Pirate Roberts. Really fun movie!

Cars

Yes, this is a cartoon, but it’s about Route 66, completed in 1926, which was dotted with prosperous towns and it was America’s route west traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles. Construction began on I-40 in 1957 and was completed in 1975, causing the little towns along Route 66 to dry up. Can you tell I’m a history buff? Okay, the movie is adorable with a life lesson about friendship.

Snowball Express

I saw this Disney movie in the theatre when it was released in 1972. A big city accountant named Johnny Baxter moves his family to Colorado when they inherit a hotel from his uncle “Crazy Jake.” This is a fun adventure set in beautiful snowy Colorado following the family hilarious attempts to open a ski resort. Wholesome.

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

Growing up in poverty with a single-mom and a learning disability did not stop Ben from growing up to be a ground-breaking nuerosurgeon. His life is a beautiful testimony to the grace of God and love of a good mother.

It’s A Wonderful Life

The classic Christmas feel good story about a young man with dreams who becomes a middle-aged man facing a terrible financial crisis. This movie promotes love, family, and friendship inside a touching story.

Sound of Music

A quirky nun is called to be a governess for a widower’s seven children. She brings life, joy, and music back into the family. With romance, singing, and light comedy, this is a family favorite in our house. I saw it for the first time with Mom and 45 years later, my daughter took me to see in the movie theater for a reshowing. I love this movie!

42

In 1946, history was made when Jackie Robinson crossed the color barrier to play for the Brooklynn Dodgers. In the midst of prejudice and thoughtlessness, Jackie remains kind and loving. A very inspiring movie!

Parent Trap (Disney)

Both versions of the Disney classic are wonderful to watch together as a family. The earlier version stars Hayley Mills in two roles as twins separated at birth when their parents divorced. They meet up at summer camp and discover they are sisters. Then they hatch a plan to get Mom and Dad back together. The hilarious fun of the first movie was wonderfully remade in 1998 with Lindsay Lohan playing the twins. I was surprised and delighted that the original and remake could both be so entertaining and enjoyable. Usually one is better than the other. This is a great movie to watch if you want to relax and laugh.

Risen

Risen takes us back in time to the time of Jesus Resurrection. Career military tribune Clavius investigates the mystery surrounding Jesus’ empty tomb. As Clavius attempts to find a rational explanation, he is confronted with the miraculous power of God. I love this fresh perspective on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus!

Remember the Titans

In Virginia where football is sacred, a high school football coach is forced to become the assisant when a black head coach is hired and black players are added to the all-white team. Set in 1971 and based loosely on a true story, this is a beautiful story of friendship, loyalty, and teamwork. Great family film.

Mom’s Night Out

This movie is just plain fun! We laugh so hard when we watch three moms head out for a night of no kids, no husband, and relaxation. Of course, the night is anything but relaxing and all sorts of mishaps make it a fine comedy.

Courageous

The Kendrick brothers and Sherwood pictures introduces us to a Sheriff’s deputy who endures a terrible personal loss that causes him to rethink what it means to be a father. He brings in his co-workers on his quest. A beautiful story of redemption!

Polycarp

Released in 2015, this movie takes us  back in time to the church in Smyrna where the Christians are being persecuted for their faith. Bishop Polycarp and his precious congregation will become dear friends as the story unfolds and their faith is put to the test. An inspiring film that will strengthen your commitment to Jesus.

Faith Like Potatoes

When a Zambian farmer (of Scottish descent) moves to Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, to make a better life for his family, there is one trial after another, including terrible tragedy. Likes his potatoes, Angus grows in his faith and love for God.

Please note that there is one scene which is fairly graphic, very tragic, and heartbreaking. Every parent I know who has scene this movie weeps at this scene. It is probably too much for younger audiences so this film may be better for more mature audiences.

Time Changer

A  Bible scholar from 1890 travels forward in time 100 years to see the impact his book will have on future generations of Christians. This movie explores the negative impact of liberal theology at its roots. An excellent movie to understand how what we believe about God impacts how we live.

Miracle

This movie released in 2004, takes us back in time to 1980 where we meet Herb Brooks, played but Kurt Russell, a hockey coach who builds a winning team to compete for the USA in the Olympics. The hot-headed college hockey stars have to learn to work together and value on another if they have any hoping of winning a medal. A great movie!

The Chronicles of Narnia

The classic C.S. Lewis fantasy is brought to life in this movie. Four young children move to the country to live with their uncle for safety reasons during World War II. When they open the magical wardrobe, the adventure begins. This adventure stands alone, but as an allegory, it is amazing!

The Blind Side

Sandra Bulluck is one of my favorite actresses and she shines in this movie about a wealthy Christian family that takes in a tramatized homeless teenager, Michael Oher, who rises to become an All American football player and first draft pick for the NFL. Another inpiring movie about love and investing in people. Beautiful story.

The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry

Dustin begins mowing laws for an older man at church which leads to a special friendship. Jonahtan Sperry, the older gentleman, begins a Bible study with Dustin and his friends, but his mentoring goes beyond the study to living out the ways of the Lord. The ending will have everyone in tears. I love this movie!

Pollyanna

One of my favorite books is a movie released by Disney in 1960. After the death of her missionary parents, Pollyanna is sent to live with her rich, but grumpy aunt. Her gladness and looking at the bright side of things turns the town upside down and when she is down and out, they rally to her. This is beautiful movie about friendship and love.

Resources

HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith CurtisUnlocking the Mystery of Homeschooling High School by Meredith Curtis and Laura NoletteJoyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith CurtisTravel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis

 

 

Prioritizing Relationships in Your Homeschool

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

prioritizing relationshipsDisclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

 

Christi Deason joins the show again, this time to chat about the importance of prioritizing relationships in the homeschool. We talk about the two priority relationships for our children, their relationship to God and their relationship to us, their parents.

First, the most important relationship for us to help cultivate is their relationship with Jesus. That should be our #1 goal, not academics!

Why should we prioritize relationships over academics?

  • The Bible has very little to say about academic instruction.
  • The Bible warns against prioritizing anything that has to do with prosperity.
    • “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” Mark 8:36
    • Usually the primary purpose for focusing on academics is a concern about our children “getting good jobs” and being “successful.”
    • Very intelligent people who are morally bankrupt may become successful by the world’s standards, but they often do the most damage. As C. S. Lewis stated in his book, Mere Christianity (affiliate), “Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.”

How do we properly prioritize their relationship with the Lord?

  • It happens naturally as we do life with them and they see our own walk.
  • We must be strong in our own faith!
  • Look for opportunities to make faith real and practical to everyday life.

This primary relationship depends on our parental relationship. We are a picture of Christ to them.

How do we cultivate that?

  • Treat them as individuals.
    • They are not our property or slaves.
    • They are our “brothers and sisters” in Christ!
  • Love unconditionally – “Love is patient, love is kind…”

Practical ideas for building relationships:

  • Have a weekly Family Movie Night.
  • Schedule in regular talk time or time just being together so talking can take place naturally (watching a favorite show, working on a hobby, etc.).
  • Take your children on errands and special outings one-on-one
  • Find good Bible study resources. Some of our favorites for helping our children develop their own devotional time were Kay Arthur’s Discover 4 Yourself® Inductive Bible Studies for Kids. Here are a few my children enjoyed:

Everything hinges on prayer and following God’s leading. Ask the Lord how you can better prioritize the relationships in your family, then listen as He directs!