The Thursday Update

MAY 2, 2024

Lakeshore Friends—

As parents, we know there are moments when we wonder how effectively our parenting is working.  This is really evident when our kids have gone “prodigal” in some way.  Maybe they have run away from home, or they have rejected our values.  Maybe they have even rejected faith in Jesus.

Few things are as disheartening.  But I want to say this to those of us who feel this way: never lose hope!  How can I say that?  Here are a few reasons:

1. God is in control. The Bible is loaded with verses about how God can redirect people’s lives.  Perhaps the most incredible example is Paul’s radical conversion from a Christian hater to a Christian leader (Acts 9:1-19).  Trust Him to be in control of your child’s life and to change them.

2. God still answers prayer. James 5:16 reminds us that effectual and fervent prayer offered by righteous people is powerful.  Keep praying fervently for your children every day.

3. God is at work in us. God never allows us to hurt without something being helpful along with it.  God may be doing all He is doing through our children to help us grow in some critically important way (Romans 8:28-29).

I’m so glad that God is always in charge of life, and He is at work in the lives of those who love Him.  Sometimes that’s the only hope we can cling to.  The good news is that it’s the ultimate hope we need so that we never give up.

Warmly,
Vince