As parents, we always want our kids to be the best versions of themselves, and we spend time dreaming of who they might grow up to be. But ultimately as followers of Jesus, we want to raise our children to step into their purpose for the good of God鈥檚 Kingdom.
God placed your kids in your family, and you are their main influence when it comes to living a purpose-driven life. Below are 4 ways to encourage your kids to live in their purpose.
1. Call out their strengths
When you see your child鈥檚 unique strengths, make a point to acknowledge them by calling them out specifically. Maybe it鈥檚 telling your Kindergartener that they鈥檙e a great listener when their sibling is upset, or your 5th Grader that you love how they pay attention to the small details when cleaning their room. Calling out their strengths gives your child the opportunity to recognize and celebrate their God-given gifts.
2. Serve with them
Look for opportunities to give and serve together as a family. Whether it鈥檚 raising money for important causes, bringing a meal to a neighbor, writing an encouraging note to a friend, or serving at church鈥攖hese experiences will show your kids that what they can give matters, even if it feels small or insignificant. Read Corinthians 12:12-27 together to dive deeper.
3. Support them in inviting friends to church
When your child shows interest in bringing friends along to church, offer to host a fun sleepover the night before, or a playdate afterwards! Your child can make a big impact by simply extending an invitation to a friend. Let them know that they鈥檙e playing an important role in God鈥檚 Kingdom by making that invite, regardless of if it鈥檚 accepted or not.
4. Remind them of their purpose
You may think they know already, but keep reminding your child that they have a unique purpose for their lives. Read 1 Timothy 4:12 together and explain that God doesn鈥檛 think any less of them just because they鈥檙e young鈥攊n fact, he has a purpose in mind just for them.
Your family is a unique part of God鈥檚 Kingdom鈥攁nd when your kids know you believe that, they can start to live in their purpose. Learn more at lcbcchurch.com/kids