Summer Time, When the Livin’ is Easy
Summer is definitely kids’ favorite time of the year; a time to enjoy great weather, plenty of outdoor activities, fellowship with friends, and time off from the “go-go-go” of the school year routine. But as many parents know, the wonderfully lax routines of summer can often lead to children having a little more leeway than they might otherwise enjoy. Summer brings the opposite of the business and structure of the school year; kids get to escape the regular day-to-day schedule and their educational authorities leading to a lack of obedience.
School is back in session
As kids are finishing up summer and preparing to go back to school schedules, it is a great time to revisit structure and obedience. Here are some things you can do to help your children ease back into their daily routines and get back to obedience.
1. Trusting Others
It’s important to remind your children that obedience and authority are not about dominance and lack of choice, but rather obedience is trusting those who lead you by their authority by doing what you’re asked to do (Hebrews 13:17a). Trusting others that lead us, shows that we trust the plan God has for our lives.
2. Adam and Eve and Abraham
Start focusing in on the stories of Adam & Eve and Abraham. This will demonstrate the themes of trusting and obeying when others don’t, not knowing the outcome and realizing God has a larger plan. This will also demonstrate the consequences of disobedience. At the beginning of this school year, explain to your children what the Bible says about obedience and the people in authority over them.
3. Lead by Example
Your children rely on you to show them how to navigate the world. They are always listening and always watching whether you realize it or not. This means you have the opportunity to model what it means to be obedient and respect those in authority. During the school year, let your children see you treat their teacher, other students and parents respectfully. Also, ensure they never hear you talking poorly about those in authority over them or over you. When your child can see you putting obedience and respectfulness into practice, they are more likely to success at it themselves.
Going back to school reinforces structure in you and your child’s lives. Remind your child that school provides a new opportunity to grow. So, grab that backpack and take the journey!
“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account.” Hebrews 13:17a
