The definition of courage is “the ability to do something that frightens someone.” We often associate the word with big, grand gestures of bravery, like a soldier running headfirst into the enemy’s battle lines, fearlessly ready for whatever comes next. This is right (and inspirational), but it doesn’t help us much for the daily emotional, cultural, and social battles students face today. Before we run headfirst into the comment section battle on that Facebook status or into another argument about phones at the dinner table, let’s take a look at what courage really looks like for us as parents, and how it can make a difference in our children’s lives.
Stay Grounded
To be courageous, we need to first stay grounded. As Christ-followers and parents, there’s nothing more important than regularly reading God’s Word and being in prayer. In Ephesians 6, Paul describes the Word as our armor to go into spiritual battles. Without it, we are susceptible to the enemy. If you haven’t already, make it a habit to be in the Word and in prayer every day. It takes courage and intentionality to put the truth of Scripture over the “truth” of the world. Make this a priority for your family.
Stay Consistent
Keep showing up for your children even if they don’t always show up for you. It takes courage (and a lot of humility) to continue to love them when they are acting unlovable, but trust that God is using your efforts (and remember God loves us, even though we are often undeserving of His love, too). Students go through so much change and transition in just a few short years. Be there as someone they can count on, and point them to Jesus always.
Stay Alert
The key to winning any battle is to be aware of where and how the enemy is trying to attack. When we fail to remain aware of what’s happening in culture and in society, we lose the ability to help our children where they truly need it. This does not mean we need to go into the dark corners of Tik Tok (we have to protect our own hearts, too), but it does mean we should make an effort to understand what they are fighting so we can help them fight it.
We are praying for you as you navigate the daily battles of your children’s lives. Fighting this fight is hard, but it matters for eternity. Fight courageously!
Lindsey Gorveatte
Director of Soul Exercises
Photo by Michael Schofield on Unsplash