So whose parents made the best choice, Jerome’s or Claudia’s? Which school would you want to send your teenager to?
The fact is, these two teenagers’ parents made the exact same choice. Both of these kids go to the same school. On top of that, it’s a Christian school. But lest you think this is an indictment against Christian schools, I could have written this scenario about different kids I know who are going to public school or two kids whose principal, vice principal, and teacher is their mother. The key to choosing the right school for your child has far more to do with your child than it does the school.
Does that mean it doesn’t matter where you send your child to school? Of course it matters, but it doesn’t carry nearly the weight when it comes to your child’s spiritual life as a lot of parents think. Does where you send your child to school determine how they develop spiritually? No. Influence? Yes. Determine? No.
The real determining factor is what is going on inside the heart of your child. Apart from their surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit, the greatest influence on your child’s heart is you, the parent.
So whether you teach your children at home or send them to a Christian or public school, these actions will not play the most important role when it comes to developing them spiritually. That role will be played by you. How? By creating a passionate, grace-based environment where they can see a genuine faith lived out in your home and heart – a heart that directly reflects the love of God. The more you play your role effectively, the more any of these educational options become a positive part of your children’s academic success.
© Copyright 2005 Dr. Tim Kimmel and Family Matters®
Dr. Tim Kimmel, author of Grace Based Parenting and Why Christian Kids Rebel, is one of America's top advocates speaking for the family today. He is the Executive Director of Family Matters® whose goal is to equip families for every age and stage of life. Tim and Family Matters® conduct conferences across the country on the unique pressures that confront members of today's families. Over the past few years, Tim has spoken to millions of people throughout the country. He has spoken for Promise Keepers, Focus on the Family's Life on the Edge Tour, and he and his wife, Darcy, are speakers for FamilyLife Ministry's Weekend To Remember. Visit the Family Matters website at www.familymatters.net.
Related articles:
The Real Meaning of Rebellion
Is Christian Education Worth the Cost?
