Wow, it's been a busy week! I can't believe we'll be headed home tomorrow. This week our young people have made a lot of great changes in their lives! Those decisions are awesome, but we know that they need help to follow through. If you'll let me, I want to give you, as parents, three practical things to do when your kids come back from camp to help them succeed.
1. Listen
When teens come back from camp, they have a lot to say! It's been an exciting week for them! They've had fun and have been challenged from God's Word. Now, they are coming home filled with enthusiasm and mildly funny stories. Please take time to listen to them and not just hear them. I know life at home is still going a million miles an hour, but please take some time to listen. (Especially you dad!) After you've listened, ask them a question. Ask them "What did God show you this week?" or "What truth from God's Word really spoke to your heart?" Then listen again.
2. Pray!
I know you've been praying all week, but don't stop! Your child may or may not tell you, what the Lord is challenging them about, but I honestly believe the Holy Spirit is working in their hearts. Keep praying for them! If they do reveal what God is doing in their lives, please don't hammer them. Encourage them! Your young people needed prayer this week, and they'll need it in the coming weeks. The devil is going to work overtime to overturn every spiritual decision made.
3. Lead
As parents, we are far from perfect. We know that and our children know that. But we are required to lead as godly examples. You've invested a lot to send your young people to a Christian camp. A lot of time, money, and effort have been put forth. Now the ball is back in our court. Your young people need to see the truths they have been taught, illustrated in everyday life. This is the hardest part of camp! The money, time, and effort lose effectiveness if there is no one to lead spiritually.
It's been an exciting week, but if we are faithful it will lead to a victorious summer!