Pastor's Corner: Preparing our kids for school – and life

For the last month, parents have been bombarded with ads with back-to-school must-haves. Each one encourages us to start their school year off right by purchasing everything from clothes and school supplies to electronics. But getting kids off to a good start in life, as well as in school, is something that cannot be purchased and which needs to be addressed long before that panicked, last-minute trip to the store.

Many have the idea that our schools are totally responsible for the education of our kids, not just for imparting knowledge of reading, math and science, etc., but also for teaching them manners, values and other key life lessons. But the Scriptures place the responsibility for children’s success on parents!

Proverbs 22:6 says, [BEGIN ITAL]“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”[END ITAL] The word “train” here doesn’t so much imply setting rules, as setting a good example. As parents, we need to show, more than tell, our kids how to act.

Psalm 127:3-4 also says it well, [BEGIN ITAL]“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.”[END ITAL] First, it reminds us that children are a blessing, not a burden! Raising kids is not easy, but our children are the most important legacy any of us will leave behind.

Then, it compares our children to arrows soaring into the air with purpose and direction. But the successful trajectory of an arrow depends on the ability and focus of the one who shoots it. That’s why it says they are like “arrows in the hands of a [BEGIN ITAL]warrior.”[END ITAL]

By ability, I mean it will require the discipline, strength and training of a seasoned warrior to get kids off to the right start. Preparing your kids for life means you are at war. That is not to say at war with your kids. Instead, you are battling [BEGIN ITAL]for[END ITAL] your kids against a world of influences that do not have their best interests at heart.

It also will require a very clear focus, both on your kids and on the dreams and goals you have for them. Pay attention – listen to not only their words, but their hearts. Remember, true success isn’t about money, fame or power. It’s about a healthy heart and mind and a life of purpose that they will only find as they connect with the God who gave them life.

Dream big and aim high for your kids! God does! God spoke clearly to His people in Jeremiah 29:11, [BEGIN ITAL]“ ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ ”[END ITAL]

God has great plans for your kids, and He wants them to have an amazing future. So while you are dreaming big for your kids, be sure and hear from the God who knows what the future holds for them and who can help you guide them to true success.