When hormone-crazed emotions mix with future-impacting decisions, quick answers such as ask “Just ask God” can leave our children feeling frustrated, fearful and filled with more questions than before! We can help teach them how to hear from God.
Anxious to be independent as fast as I could, learning to drive was so exciting for me! When my mom compared a streetlight with hearing from God, I listened. Try this explanation with your child as well. You can open the door for a great conversation on your next road trip or errand to the store:
Heading somewhere new, your eyes naturally dart back and forth as you approach an intersection. Looking for landmarks and street signs as clues you’re heading in the right direction, you proceed forward, all the while glancing up at the light for any changes.
If the light stays green, you keep going. Maybe you even speed up. A yellow light clues you in to cautiously heading forward, yet preparing to stop if it turns red. Nearing a red light, your foot applies pressure, bringing your car to a complete stop.
Compare these steps to hearing from God.
Keep your eyes and ears open; constantly looking for God’s direction. If you’re experiencing His peace and your decision is consistent with His word, keep going! Uneasiness or lack of direction might be God’s way of saying, “Slow down. Proceed with caution.” While the red light of your heart warns you to stop; go no further.
While this may seem completely feelings based, this simple illustration can be a beginning to teaching your child how to listen and obey the voice of the Holy Spirit.
Did you know that you CAN teach your child to hear the voice of God?
Lynn Cowell is the author of Magnetic: Becoming the Girl He Wants. Connect with her more at www.LynnCowell.com.
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