Children growing up.

[Paul57]

What do you do when you realize that your children a all grown up now. When you realize that you have to accept the fact that they have their own way of doing things which is usually different than the way you do things. Why is it so difficult to let go and let GOD guide and bless them. How do you help your good christian children when you are afraid that they are being led down a path that talks of being a part of the body of Christ but continually talks about judging others and turning away from those that are not as good as you. Where is love and forgiveness. Who does Christ tell us to hate and turn our back on????

[a.baker]

God says to hate sin but love the sinner.

Its hard but sometimes you have to let your children make the mistake and let them learn that way. Sometimes that's the only way to learn.

Remember the story The Prodigal Son.

Theres a period in many kids where they travel away but they always come back to their roots. Thats some where in the OT.

Also remember to lead by example, not just to lecture. Your their first example they can trust and then they can see what your talking about. Always be realistic and patient of expectations, don't push, that will lead a child to rebel.

Let your kids be who they are, make sure your expectations are biblical not social. My mil was hard on my sil for wearing black. She was worried what her church friends would think. God doesn't care what colors we wear, thats harmless for example.

I hope that helps. Its not easy being a parents and the job never ends; even when they move out.

[CoreIssue]

Originally Posted by Paul57

What do you do when you realize that your children a all grown up now. When you realize that you have to accept the fact that they have their own way of doing things which is usually different than the way you do things.

As an empty nester for about 11 years now you learn.

They are not you and you cannot guarantee what they will be.

The best and worst people were the children of someone who may have been among the best or worst people. No guarantees.

Why is it so difficult to let go and let GOD guide and bless them.

Because you care but struggle with them no longer being children.

How do you help your good christian children when you are afraid that they are being led down a path that talks of being a part of the body of Christ but continually talks about judging others and turning away from those that are not as good as you.

You point it out, try to steer them to better ways and pray. Then it is between them and God.

Where is love and forgiveness.

Love allows for forgiveness but does not demand it. Refusing the forgive those who repent shows a lack of love.

It is a complex issue without easy answers in every case.

Who does Christ tell us to hate and turn our back on????

Among the Body of Christ those who sin against their brothers and refuse to repent of the sin. Meaning serious sin, not trivial.

In the turning away them may be brought back through their loss.

But that does not mean those turning away hate them. Not at all. It means justice and hard love are realities that cannot be dismissed.

God loves every sinner who will spend eternity in the Lake. But he will send them there.