Parenting Points

If your child will have a long-term faith, faith must become their own. We know that faith in Jesus is a personal thing that cannot be received through merely being in a Christian environment or being raised by Christian parents. It takes intentionality to help your kids develop their own faith. 

Model an Authentic Walk with Jesus Before Your Kids. Your kids are looking not for perfect examples but for living examples, so live your faith out before them authentically. Kids and teenagers learn a lot from seeing their parents pray, read the Bible, and serve others with love and humility. Authenticity in your spiritual life sets a powerful example and shows that faith is not just a Sunday activity but a daily commitment.

Give Kids Space to Explore Faith on Their Own Terms. Encourage open dialogue about spiritual doubts, questions, and different perspectives. When kids feel safe to express their honest thoughts, they are more likely to develop a personal conviction rather than simply following what they’ve been told. Supporting them in seeking answers- whether through Bible study, mentorship, or reading Christian books- fosters a sense of ownership over their faith journey.

Help Kids Find Spiritual Practices to Connect with God that Resonate with Them. It’s important that kids learn ways to connect with God that fit their personalities and passions. When kids actively participate in faith-based activities they enjoy, they develop habits that strengthen their connection with God. Encourage them to set aside time daily or weekly for prayer and reflection, turning faith from an obligation into a meaningful, personal experience.

Pray for Your Kids to Develop Their Own Faith. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and strength as they navigate their spiritual journey. Let them know you believe in their ability to develop their own relationship with God. Often, knowing they are supported and loved unconditionally encourages teens to grow in confidence and independence in their faith.

Encouraging faith ownership isn’t about letting go entirely but guiding teens to discover a Christ-centered life that is truly their own. When they develop a personal relationship with God, their faith becomes a guiding light that sustains them through every season. They will be equipped and empowered to walk with Jesus out of your house and into all the stages of life God has for them.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong 

Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries

www.benbirdsong.com

Parenting Points

As our lives become increasingly busy, finding quality time to spend with family can become increasingly challenging. Family retreats offer a unique opportunity to step away from the chaos of daily routines, reconnect with one another, and grow in your faith together. 

What Is a Family Retreat? A family retreat is some dedicated time away, ideally in a restful location, where families participate in enriching activities designed to foster connection, faith, and relaxation. Family retreats can vary from weekend getaways to week-long experiences. The primary goal is to create space for families to grow in their relationships with each other and deepen their faith. Summer could be a great season for your family to consider planning your own family retreat.

What Would a Family Retreat Look Like? For your family retreat, you want to focus on the relational – your relationship with your family and God. Minimizing technology and screens on a family retreat can create space for these relationships to deepen. Strategic activities like hiking, canoeing, or team-building exercises can help develop deeper family relationships. These shared experiences create lasting memories, help family members appreciate one another’s strengths, and support each other in growth. Connecting with God on a deeper level as a family can be done through intentional time away from regular life. Depending on the age of your kids, this will likely look different. Your family could gather around a firepit and go around the circle, sharing stories of how God is working in each of your lives. You could read and discuss a book of the Bible, have times of prayer and encouragement for each family member, or read through several selected stories from a children’s Bible. No matter what you choose, connecting with God is what sets a family retreat apart from an ordinary vacation. 

What Could Be the Goals for a Family Retreat? Before heading to a retreat, it’s a good idea to discuss goals and expectations as a family. Encourage each member to share what they hope to gain from the experience—whether it’s deeper connections, spiritual growth, or simply some much-needed relaxation. Summer is a great time to consider scheduling a family retreat, which would be a transformative experience that can revitalize relationships and deepen faith. By stepping away from routines and embracing this intentional time together, families can emerge more connected, rejuvenated, and ready to face life’s challenges together, united as a family.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong 

Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries

www.benbirdsong.com

Parenting Points

We have a God who is always at work, yet we and our families are often too busy and distracted to notice how He is working. Seeing God’s work strengthens our faith, deepens our trust, and increases our desire to join God in His work. What could it look like to take time to notice, engage in, and celebrate God’s work in and through your family?

Eyes to See. “God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them,” wrote Pastor John Piper. If we could begin to see the world through God’s perspective, we would be amazed at how God sustains, strengthens, leads, and guides us and our children faithfully through every moment of the day. Having eyes to see begins by praying and seeking God to give you and your family the strength to slow down and see the world through His eyes.

Faith to Engage. Often, we put a lot of pressure on serving God and ministering to others. We think serving God is for ministry professionals rather than everyday people like us. But it is much simpler than that. Henry Blackaby wrote in his classic book Experiencing God, “Look to see where God is working and join Him.” As we pray for eyes to see, our next prayer is for faith to engage.

Plan to Remember. Once we have seen God’s hand at work and joined him in that work, it is easy for us to forget about what happened as we continue through the endless to-do lists that fill most of our days. Remembering will likely require a plan, which could be anything from writing in a journal or simply making a note on your phone. Taking time to record and remember God’s work will serve as a good source of encouragement to you in the future.

Passion to Share. What if one of the questions you asked your family at dinner was, “Do you have any God stories from today?” Imagine how encouraging it could be to hear how God was at work in and through each family member. Think about the opportunity to disciple your kids as they hear about how God works in and through your life. That simple question could change everything.

God is at work. Will you slow down to notice? Will you join Him in what He is doing? If you do, it could transform you and your family’s year ahead.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong 

Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries

www.benbirdsong.com

Parenting Points

“Unprecedented” has become a meaningless word because it has been applied to everything. A coming presidential election leads to dusting off this word. Once again, we find ourselves in a world where we are divided – your party vs. my party and your candidate vs. mine. We all want to be on Jesus’ side, but I don’t think putting Jesus on a side is as easy as we may want it to be. When I served in student ministry, it was always fascinating to hear students talk about politics. Their dogmatic views of the heroes and villains of Washington were way beyond their age and personal research. These views being so passionately shared were parroted from conversations at home between mom and dad. So, how did Jesus respond to politics in His day when people tried to put him on a political team?

After Jesus performed a miracle and fed 5,000 men plus countless women and children, the crowd erupted, and the moment changed. John’s gospel recounts: “Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself” (John 6:15 ESV). The crowds wanted Jesus to be a political patriot, yet He ran away because He knew His mission was much greater than mere politics. In the moment when Jesus had a shot to become the political King of the Jews, He leaves the scene. He does not meet with the leaders of the political party. He does not become a lobbyist. He doesn’t pick a candidate to endorse. He simply moves on. Jesus cannot be contained by a party, side, or political persuasion. The priorities of Jesus are seen in a heart for humanity and a love for neighbor that raises hard questions that no single political system or party can adequately answer. 

As we approach politics with our kids in this coming election season, we need to remember that our kids are listening to what we say and watching how we respond. We should seek to have thoughtful conversations with our kids about politics and ideas that matter, yet we must remember that Jesus refuses to take sides, that faith must impact our decisions, and that the Gospel that unites us is much more important than the aisle that divides us. We should equip our kids to engage with ideas instead of demonizing people and to look beyond temporary conversations to seek to talk about eternal things. Our kids are watching, the world is watching, and we are representing Jesus as His followers.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong 

Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries

www.benbirdsong.com 

Parenting Points

Church can be challenging, but it’s also a place where you belong. There have been many days, both attending and serving in churches, where you may have been tempted never to return. When broken people gather to seek to glorify and walk with Jesus in community, it can be messy. But despite the mess that often comes with it, there is power in Christians walking with Jesus in Christian community. The early church in the book of Acts “devoted” (Acts 4:42) themselves to each other in Christian community. In our busy world where faith is often defined as a “me and Jesus” or “private” thing, why is it important for us and our families to engage with our local church?

Power of Gathered Worship. Something extraordinary happens when we gather with other believers to worship Jesus. Through a time of corporate worship, we are reminded of what we believe through the Word and sacraments, exhorted through a sermon to live out that belief in everyday life, and given space to respond to the greatness of Jesus’ work in our lives through prayer and worship to Him. Corporate worship provides an environment for us to connect with God and others, inspiring us to live our lives in a way that glorifies Him.

Importance of Intentional Discipleship. In the New Testament and early church, disciples were not manufactured merely by reading books and learning theology. A disciple learned to walk with Jesus by walking alongside another brother and sister in Christ. In the church, we have opportunities through church programming and relational connection to find people for us and our kids to walk with on a journey of discipleship. Through this discipleship process, we learn to disciple our kids and others to walk with Jesus.

World Transformation through Connected Mission. It is hard to do mission alone. Many physical needs surround us. We encounter lost people daily who need the hope of the Gospel. Our cities and the nations need to experience the power of a church engaged in mission together. We can see a change in our world by combining our gifts, passions, and resources in the local church to serve our neighborhoods and the nations.

We are not meant to walk with Jesus alone. We and our families need the local church’s community, connection, and shared mission. As you and your family make plans for this fall season, will you choose to make your local church a priority?

-Dr. Ben Birdsong 

Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries

www.benbirdsong.com  

Parenting Points

As summer fades into history, school is just around the corner. The beginning of a new school year brings the introduction of routines again and the opportunities for many new things. Though excitement naturally comes with the new, so does apprehension for us and our kids. Like every new season, we do not enter this season alone. We have a God who is with us, for us, and who goes before us. In Isaiah 41, the prophet is met with his place of uncertainty and is given this encouragement from the God who is always there: “…fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV). Though God is always with us, we often forget to seek Him and bring our concerns and daily moments before Him. As your family begins to go back to school and into routines, you are entering into a great season to incorporate times of more intentional prayer. 

Ride-Time Prayers. Whether you pray with your children before they get on the bus or when you drive them to school, prayers on the ride can help you and your children offer the day to God as an act of worship. During these ride-time prayers, you might want to pray through the schedule for the day, for your kid’s teachers, and for any challenges, concerns, or tests your child may have during the day. Pray also that God would use you and your child to make an impact on others for Jesus today.

Dinner Prayers. As your family gathers around the dinner table, or maybe more realistically, eats some food from a drive-thru bag on the way to practice, you can spend some time reflecting on the day through prayer. You and your kids can share good things and bad things that happened during the day and respond in prayer, thanking God for the good things and praying for Him to be present with you in the bad things.

Bedtime Prayers. Bedtime is a great time to close the day with your children and family in prayer. In bedtime prayers, you could focus on thanking God for another day of life, asking Him to give you rest, and filling you overnight with His strength for another day.

No matter what the pattern looks like for your family, when family prayers become a part of your back-to-school rhythm, you will be amazed to see how God can change you and your kid’s perspective of Him and His constant presence.  

-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Writer, Speaker, and Minister

www.benbirdsong.com 

Parenting Points

Summer often brings a whirlwind of activities. While these experiences create lasting memories, they can also lead to a hectic pace that exhausts families. Amidst the busyness of summer, it’s vital to find moments of rest and reflection. Embracing Sabbath practices can help families reconnect with each other and with God, providing much-needed respite and spiritual renewal.

Understanding the Sabbath. The concept of the Sabbath originates from the Biblical commandment to rest on the seventh day, as God did after creating the world (Genesis 2:2-3). This rest day is about ceasing work, rejuvenating the soul, deepening relationships, and focusing on spiritual well-being. For modern families, observing the Sabbath can mean setting aside dedicated time each week to rest, worship, and enjoy each other’s company.

Creating a Sabbath Routine. Establishing a Sabbath routine can help families navigate the busy summer months with intentionality and purpose. Begin by choosing a specific day or part of a day to observe as your family’s Sabbath. This could be a traditional Sunday or another day that fits your family’s schedule. The key is consistency and commitment.

Disconnect Digitally to Reconnect Relationally. One effective Sabbath practice is to disconnect from digital distractions. Encourage family members to put away their phones, tablets, and computers to focus on being present with one another. This digital detox can foster deeper conversations, meaningful interactions, and a sense of peace often disrupted by constant connectivity.

Engage in Worship and Prayer. Dedicate part of your Sabbath to communal worship and prayer. Whether attending a church service, reading Scripture together, or singing worship songs, these activities can strengthen your family’s spiritual bond. Prayer time can also be a moment for gratitude, reflection, and seeking God’s guidance for the week ahead.

Enjoy God’s Creation. Use your Sabbath to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. These moments of connection with the natural world can be restorative and inspiring, reminding your family of God’s majesty and creativity.

Finding rest in a busy summer through Sabbath practices is essential for maintaining balance and spiritual health. You can navigate the summer’s demands with renewed energy and a deeper sense of purpose by setting aside time for rest, worship, and family connection. Embrace the Sabbath as a gift from God—a time to pause, reflect, and be restored in His presence.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Writer, Speaker, and Minister

www.benbirdsong.com 

Parenting Points

Father’s Day is a special occasion to honor and celebrate fathers’ significant role in the lives of their children and families. Beyond providing for their physical needs, fathers serve as spiritual leaders and role models, guiding their children in faith and character development. 

Father as Spiritual Leader. Fathers are called to lead their families with wisdom, love, and integrity, serving as spiritual shepherds who point their children towards God. Through their words, actions, and example, fathers can instill faith, compassion, and forgiveness in their children, laying a solid foundation for their spiritual growth and development.

Father as Example. One of the most powerful ways fathers influence their children’s faith is through their example. When fathers prioritize their relationship with God, engage in prayer and scripture reading, and demonstrate love and kindness towards others, they set a powerful example for their children. These everyday acts of faithfulness leave a lasting impression on their children’s hearts and minds, shaping their understanding of God and His love for them.

Father as Nurturer of Spiritual Growth. Fathers have a unique opportunity to nurture their children’s spiritual growth by creating a home environment conducive to faith development. Whether through family devotions, meaningful conversations about faith, or attending church together, fathers can actively engage in their children’s spiritual journey, helping them grow in their relationship with God and understanding His word.

Father as Loving Leader. Above all, fathers are called to lead with love—a love that reflects the unconditional love of our Heavenly Father. Through their love and support, fathers provide a safe and nurturing environment where their children can flourish and grow in faith. They offer guidance, encouragement, and grace, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in their roles as fathers.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, let us take the time to honor and express gratitude for the fathers in our lives. Whether biological fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, or spiritual father figures, let us recognize their invaluable contributions to our families and lives. 

-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Writer, Speaker, and Minister

www.benbirdsong.com 

Parenting Points

Life is filled with transitions—moving to a new home, changing schools, entering adolescence—each bringing a mix of excitement and uncertainty. For some families, May marks the beginning of a transition season. Navigating these transitions can be challenging for children and students, but with the support of family and trusting God by faith, they can embrace change with courage and resilience.

Recognize the Challenges of Transition. Transitions can evoke emotions in children and students, from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and fear. They may feel overwhelmed by the unknown or mourn the loss of familiarity. Acknowledging these feelings and providing a safe space for children to express themselves is important.

Turn to God for Strength During the Transition. Our faith in God can be a source of strength and comfort. By grounding themselves in their faith and trusting in God’s plan, children and students can find the courage to face new challenges confidently. Encourage children to turn to prayer, scripture, and spiritual practices to help them navigate change with grace and resilience.

Find Stability Amidst the Transition. During times of transition, children and students crave stability and consistency. Establish routines and traditions that provide security and continuity amidst change. Incorporate faith practices into daily life, such as family prayer, scripture reading, and attending worship services, to reinforce a sense of connection to God and each other.

Model Resilience. Parents serve as role models, demonstrating how to navigate transitions. Share stories of your experiences with change and how God helped you through difficult times. By modeling a positive attitude and relying on God’s guidance, you can inspire confidence and resilience in your children.

Seek Support During Transition. Navigating transitions is not something children should do alone. Encourage them to seek support from family members, friends, and trusted adults, including pastors or youth leaders. Surrounding themselves with a supportive community can provide additional encouragement and guidance as they navigate new experiences.

Transitions are a natural part of life, offering opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery. Helping children and students navigate change with reliance on God and support from others empowers them to embrace new experiences with confidence and resilience. Together, as we follow God, we can navigate life’s transitions with grace and hope for the future.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong 

Missions Minister at Christ Church Birmingham 

Writer and Speaker

www.benbirdsong.com