Today in our day it is so common place to have an overwhelmed life. We see people and families constantly rushing from here to there. And then when we reach the end we ask ourselves "Where has the time gone"? What has happened to the lazy Sunday afternoons or the family game/movie nights??
Recently my daughter and I have had to talk about this. As most parent's know there is so much for kids to participate in and such a push to have your kids in all they can. Why? Why do they need to be in soccer, dance, baseball, football, music lessons, and you fill in the blank? What happened to going outside and playing with the neighbors, or by your self or with your siblings? Now I am not saying having your kids in activities is bad but we do need to be careful how many. We as parents need to teach our kids about what is important and how to manage time so when they do leave our nest they will not be so busy they collapse.
Here are a few things to ask yourself and your spouse before signing your kids up. This list is not exhaustive and final but just a way to help you think of the priorities you have for your family. Remember what God has laid out for my family is not what He may have for yours.
1. Will it give glory to God?
Will he take delight in the Almighty? Will he call on God at all times? Job 27:10
Is the activity going to point them or anyone to Christ? Now this does not mean that if it is not bible based you should not do it but everything we do should be for His glory. Even in sports we can give glory to Him!!! We as parents want to make sure the activity will not be a stumbling block.
2. Is this something they are passionate about?
Why would we as parents spend hard earned money on an activity if our kids are just slightly interested in it? Make sure that what you do choose to spend money on is worth the money and time.
3. Are more than one child participating in it?
Again not saying that because your daughter is in dance and none of your sons want to dance that you should not allow her to but if more than one wants to participate than it is easier for mom or dad to justify the time spent. It makes it easier if you only make one or two trips for activities rather than four or five separate trips.
4. Do you have the funds?
The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender’s slave. Proverbs 22:7
If you have to go into debt for them to do this activity please pray and talk about it before making that leap. There are many programs that offer scholarships you only have to ask. We do not want to teach our children that going into debt is ok. We need to be wise with the money God has given us. Now I know not all may agree with my debt free living view and that again would be something you need to look at when it comes to finances.
5. Do you have the time to spare?
These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. Deuteronomy 6:6-8Again we are so busy as a society that parents do not spend the time with their kids as they did. We can not disciple those we do not talk to! It is an unfortunate thing if we are going so much that we do not have time to read the word with our kids, or spend time playing games, reading books or taking walks with them. Investing in our kids is not a gamble it is a privilege we should not take lightly.
This list is not exhastive but I pray it will help your family live for Him and prioritize according to what His will for your family is.
What activities do you participate in? Have you said no to any?
