T-Minus 1 “Lift Off”

T-Minus 1 “Lift Off”

Jul 30

This week we have been reviewing some of the items on our final checklist for launching our children into adulthood.  The foundation for a successful launch should have already been laid.  Our focus for parenting has been raising a child who is both marriageable and employable, but what about a firm spiritual foundation? 

Sadly, current statistics for youth leaving the church after high school are staggering.   We have found that research states anywhere from 61-88% of churched kids will leave the church upon entering adulthood.  Where does the responsibility lie?  

Many would be tempted to point their finger at the church, saying “if only there were better programs to teach my kids.”  Training our children is our responsibility and no one else’s.  That is why it is imperative that the main goal of parenting is to help our children grow in their relationship with God.  If we expect the church to do this for us we will merely be raising a “church go-er.”  Being a follower of Jesus is something that must be lived out in day to day life, not just a couple of hours a week in church and youth group.  It is also something that we must live out in front of our kids, so that they can see  it is real. Why would a teen believe Christianity is real if there is a difference between what they are hearing at church and what they are seeing lived out at home?  Remember, not only are we to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the community around us but also in our home, serving our family for His glory.