the utterance from my heart will give understanding." Psalm 49:3 (NIV)
Most people do not like to be considered an extremist; we envision ourselves as quite balanced in our thoughts and actions. When it comes to teenagers, however, communication often becomes an issue of extremity for many parents. There even seems to be a line drawn between Christians and nonbelievers on this issue.
From my observation, Christian parents tend to be naggers (see article below). We love to correct our children, don't we? We see it as our God-directed obligation, and rightly so, but often how we go about it is the furthest thing from the heart of God.
Nonbelievers, in general, have decided they would rather be friends with their children than parent them. They excuse away misbehavior and use their teens as an excuse to act like children themselves.
I believe there is a middle ground which pleases the Lord. I believe we can be both parent and friend to our children. It's all in the way we communicate.
The following article has some very practical, thought-provoking ways to improve communication with our teenagers. The article asks this tough question: "Are your kids drawn to talk to you, or do your children spend a lot of time away from the family, either on the phone, texting, listening to music in their room, or playing video games?" It's normal for teens to detach themselves to a certain extent, but the question is, where is the majority of their time being spent?
Please take the time to read this article and take it to heart, even if it stings a little. Pray that Psalm 49:3 will become a reality in your parenting.
