Set Them Free
Set Them Free
“What do you want?” He asked her. “Promise,” she said to Him, “that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right and the other on Your left, in Your kingdom.” (Matt. 20:21)
Is It about You?
Whether we are cheering for them on the field or putting a “Straight-A Student” bumper sticker on our car, we take a degree of pride in the success of our kids. But too often we see it as a direct reflection of our own lives. To push your child toward something so you can bask in their victories is not only wrong; it’s unhealthy.
Zebedee’s wife is not mentioned by name in Scripture, but her boys James and John were among the closest friends Jesus had on earth. When she approached Jesus and asked that they be co-vice presidents of His coming kingdom, perhaps she saw ultimate gain for herself.
Or Is It about Them?
Did God create your child for your purposes or for His? When we drive our kids to pursue our dreams instead of God’s calling, we are not listening to them or observing the talents and gifts God has given them. They can become angry and resentful as a result, struggling to realize who God created them to be or to accomplish all they could.
We love God when we make room for our kids to pursue His calling on their life. Letting your kids be themselves is one of the most difficult jobs a dad can have. But it can also draw you into a closer relationship with your child than you ever dreamed possible.
Bottom Line
Release your child to follow God’s vision for his or her life.