Sometimes we're a little irritated when kids (and adults) seem to be constantly connected. But what if that constant connection is part of a broader plan? Ever wonder about the best way to communicate with your kids? What's most effective at getting them to listen, and talk? As with many things, variety is the key.
Let's define three common modes of communication and see how they fit together to form a good plan for building relationships:
Texting (or any social media or even email) - short bits of information, usually one way at a time, but keeping us in constant contact in the midst of ongoing life.
A Call (audio or video) - takes more effort, two way communication, easier to convey emotion and get feedback, often deeper than a text and requires pausing other activities.
Share A Meal (or coffee or ice cream) - face to face, concentrated on conversation, involves all the senses, a shared experience.
Your relationship with your kids takes all three types: constant interaction, pausing for a conversation, and shared experiences. And if you want to teach them the Faith you should utilize all three as well. It may take a little adaptation, but the concepts work at any age.
-Constantly share small bits of spiritual information with your kids. Make it a natural part of your life to point out the presence and love of Jesus in all you do.
-Set aside time to go a little deeper. Talk about highs and lows and then pray together. Read an event from the Bible and talk about it. Let them ask a question and find the answer together.
-Share an experience. Attend a family group or worship together and discuss it afterwards. Go to a movie or show and talk about it. Cook and eat together and open up time to explore some bigger topics.
You get the idea. You can't teach the Faith to your family in one or two hours a week. Weave it into your lifestyle in quick moments; set aside brief times to focus; and share less frequent but larger experiences.
If you're asking yourself how you can actually do this in your real life, you already know the answer. Your relationship with God, your own Faith, needs the same attention and variety to fill you with the strength to pass it on to your children.
- Be in constant prayer (1 Thes. 5:17), All through your day filter what goes in and out of your head through your Faith. Always be in touch with God, seeking His guidance, approval, and forgiveness
- Set aside time each day to focus on God's Word and have a deeper conversation with Him (Matt. 14:23). Present him with your thanks and praise and concerns, and listen for His direction and love for you through His word.
- Share an experience with other believers.(Hebrews 10:24-25) Worship regularly. Attend a Bible study or small group or meet with an accountability partner. Do family devotions.
Whether it's your relationship with your kids, teaching your kids to follow Jesus, or your own relationship and discipleship with God, seek complete communication on a variety of levels. It takes effort and commitment, but the Good News is that God is there for you, He loves you, and He always has time for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)
17 pray without ceasing,
English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Matthew 14:23 (ESV)
23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone,
English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.