Parenting: the Job That Never Ends

How do we parent adult children?

I used to think that parenting was hardest when my children were so dependent on me for everything, which started when they were infants. However, as my children grew up, went off to college, and then moved out of the house I realized parenting became a whole lot harder. I know that must sound strange because I no longer dressed them, helped them with homework, transported them to ballgames, cooked their meals, or did their laundry.

So what makes parenting adult children so difficult? 

• You are no longer their authority.
• You are no longer a part of their decision making.
• You are no longer a part of everything they do.

​​Of course, as Christian parents our goal is to help train our children to be productive, independent, God-fearing, young people. So, while they are in our home we try, by God’s grace, to point them in right directions and help them set right priorities. 

Once they are on their own, our parenting role changes drastically.

At this point in their lives the best thing we can do for them is pray.

• Pray they have wisdom.
• Pray the have discernment.
• Pray they continue to love the Lord.
• Pray they have godly friendships and spouses.
• Pray they fill their days with good activities.
• Pray about your relationship with them.
• Pray, pray, pray.

Many Christian parents are heartbroken because of prodigal children. Parents should be reminded that the verse, 

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." ​Proverbs 22:6

is a principle found in Proverbs and not a promise. Once our children become adults they are accountable to God for their choices. Parents are not to blame for these choices. ​

What is the parents’ role at this point? ​

• Pray that God changes their hearts.
• Pray that the Spirit convicts them of their sin.
• Pray that godly people will cross their path and influence them.
• Pray, pray, pray.

​​​What if you are a young parent?

• Follow biblical principles in rearing your children.
• Point them to the gospel every chance you get.
• Help them learn to love God’s Word.
• Be a godly example to them.
• Teach them how to walk with God.
• Pray they are a blessing to others.
• Pray for their Salvation.
• Pray about their Christian growth.
• Pray, pray, pray. 

“He [God] commanded our fathers, that they should make them [commandments] known to their children.” Psalm 78:5​

There are no perfect parents.

​​​We must depend on God’s guidance and grace.

• ​Pray for wisdom.
• Pray for insight.
• Pray to be spirit controlled.
• Pray, pray, pray.​

Patenting is truly a gift from God.

We are stewards of special treasures. We should make the most of every moment. From infancy through adulthood we need to trust God with our children realizing He loves them even more than we do. And continually we pray, pray, pray.

“Pray without ceasing.” I Thessalonians 5:17

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Download this 30-day prayer challenge from Revive Our Hearts, and start praying for your adult children today!

In just one month's time you will have prayed for them in areas like salvation, growth in grace, love, honesty and integrity, self-control, love for God's Word, justice, mercy, respect, biblical self-esteem, faithfulness, courage, purity, kindness, generosity, peace-loving, joy, perseverance, humility, compassion, responsibility, contentment, faith, a servant's heart, hope, willingness and ability to work, passion for God, self-discipline, prayerfulness, and gratitude

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What is your prayer today for the adult children in your life?