Contents
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
2. Learn Their Lingo
3. Movie Reviews
4. Links to Learn From
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
From http://www.realworldparents.com/starters/
Conversation Starters:
A few ideas each week you can use at the table, in the car, or any time an opportunity comes along to talk with your kids about wisdom and God's Word.
Whatever your family has talked together about during this economic crisis, it continues to be a great opportunity to discuss financial wisdom and foolishness with your kids.
Money Problems
This Week: Money Problems
The economy may be beginning to bounce back this week. At least, that’s the spin this news cycle. Whatever your family has talked together about during this economic crisis, it continues to be a great opportunity to discuss financial wisdom and foolishness with your kids.
In addition to looking for natural opportunities to share from your own experience, understanding, and insight about the financial issues in play today, we’re encouraging parents this week to consider the ancient wisdom of Solomon about money as he expressed in Ecclesiastes 5. Consider reading that chapter as preparation for talking through the questions below.
Scripture identifies Solomon as the wisest and perhaps wealthiest man who has ever lived. Surprisingly, he was highly cynical about money. He saw money as fickle, limited, and ultimately disappointing. He urged his readers to develop the ability to enjoy what they had rather than making acquisition the point of life.
We’d love to hear if any of the following questions provoke some honest and productive conversations with your kids.
Talking Points:
-What does it mean to you to “love” money? Can you think of anyone we know who seems to live for money?
-What would be so wrong with living for money?
-Why do you think the economy is in such a mess right now?
-Do you think people who live for money ever feel like they have enough of it?
-How much money do you think you would need to be really satisfied with life?
-One of the problems with having things is that it costs so much to take care of those things. Have you ever thought about how much it costs to keep our car(s) running from month to month?
-During this economic crisis, people have been buying way fewer cars. What do you think that means for all the people who make their living on the costs that come with buying and owning cars?
-Have you noticed that we sometimes seem to get anxious or worried about money? Why do you think people get so uptight about money issues? Does it bother you that we can get worried about money?
-Do you think it’s sometimes easier to have less money if it means you have less to worry about? Why or why not?
-Do you think it can ever be unhealthy to have too much money? What would be some unhealthy attitudes that could come from having too much?
-Do you think people with lots of money should be more or less generous with money? Why do you think God cares so much that we give away some of our money?
-After everyone we know right now has died, will it matter who had the most money? Or who was the poorest? What will matter about our lives after we’ve died?
-How do you think we as a family do at really enjoying our lives? Do you think we enjoy our meals together? Our play times? The good things we have?
-Do you think it’s possible to really enjoy work? Why or why not?
-Do you think we do a good job at telling God thanks for all the good gifts we have? How could we do better at that?
-Does money provide all the good things in our lives or do they come from God? (See James 1:17)
Obeying God First
The challenge we face in communicating our commitment and passion for obeying God to our kids is not a new one, of course. It’s the same challenge the nation of Israel faced with each new generation. And we know they were not always successful. In fact, their record was pretty dismal. Human nature has not changed. Still, God has laid it at our feet to get their attention and pass the spark on in a way that has the best chance to catch flame. Specifically, the goal is to get them to internalize their responsibility to obey Him first and above all.
Trying Harder
Is it possible that some of us have taken some of the challenge out of following Jesus for our kids? Have we described a relationship with God that is too easy, that only requires students to talk the talk and stay out of serious trouble? Is there value in setting the bar higher for our kids (and ourselves) and then making sure they notice the sweat involved in running after Jesus?
Known by Their Texts
If in the distant future some diligent historian were to uncover a letter or e-mail or series of text messages to or from your child, what would they learn from that snapshot? What would they conclude about your child’s character, faith, or values?
One More Thing
You know that feeling you get when you’re saying goodbye to a son or daughter on the way out the door to a big trip or major event? Or maybe you’re the one headed somewhere for a few days. Suddenly, you fall into a rush of last-minute instructions and helpful direction. Sometimes, your most important guidance comes out in those “signing off” moments.
Standing Stronger
Your children may sometimes feel as if the secular media culture, especially, is hostile to their faith. Closer to home, the reaction of peers to bold belief in Jesus can range from simple confusion to open contempt. How do your kids stand strong against cultural pressure to violate their biblical convictions?
God is Good
Your student lives in a youth culture full of voices questioning God’s goodness. Even those of us deeply convinced in the goodness of God are sometimes tempted to question that. To help your student think and talk about God’s goodness, read through Psalm 40 this week and look for the right opportunity to ask your student a few of these questions.
New Year, New You
From a wisdom perspective, you can help your student think through issues like where the power to change for the better really comes from, how growing spiritually is similar and different from just getting better grades or getting in shape, what “obvious sins” are and are not, and what someone becoming more like Jesus should start to look like.
The Foolish Joy of Mocking
Many students fall into the habit of mocking as a way for covering up their own insecurity. Afraid of looking stupid, some will mock others before they can become the victim. Eventually, the habit can become a lifestyle.
2. Learn Their Lingo
MOOS = Text message slang for member of the opposite sex.
Nonversation = A completely worthless conversation, wherein nothing is illuminated, explained or otherwise elaborated upon.
3. Movie Reviews for Parents
Monsters vs. Aliens
This Dreamworks Animation film isn’t built to provide lots of worldview issues to chew on. It’s a funny 3D romp packed with recognizable actors voicing… Read Review:
http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/monsters_vs._aliens/
Knowing
Knowing
Until the last act, “Knowing” feels like a somewhat standard spooky, sci-fi story in which the hero races to figure out the secret in time… Read Review:
http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/knowing/
4. Links to Learn From
Girl violence getting more lethal
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/news/Girl+violence+getting+more+lethal/1418840/story.html
Vitamin D Deficiency Makes Young Girls’ Muscles Weak
http://www.naturalnews.com/025914.html
Allergy sufferers cautious about peanut research
http://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/local/allergy_sufferers_cautious_about_peanut_research_03-24-2009.html
Scholarships Drying Up [Associate Press]http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hAgWZsDAa8xaSjrav7_IW8i7a06AD96SCVF80
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
Teenagers are people who act like babies if they're not treated like adults.- MAD Magazine
Featured Resource: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Teenagers in Crisis
Fights at school, sexual abuse, eating disorders, school crises … the list goes on and on. Hardly a day passes without a local crisis at involving junior highers or high schoolers. This practical resource covers the whole continuum of private and public crisis, equipping parents to work with their kids to deal with any crisis in a way that helps the individual and helps the family stay intact.
Receive 30% off A Parent’s Guide to Helping Teenagers in Crisis using coupon code RWPN102 by April 11th, 2009.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Obeying God First
Contents
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
2. Learn Their Lingo
3. Movie Reviews
4. Links to Learn From
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
From http://www.realworldparents.com/starters/
This Week: Obeying God First
The challenge we face in communicating our commitment and passion for obeying God to our kids is not a new one, of course. It’s the same challenge the nation of Israel faced with each new generation. And we know they were not always successful. In fact, their record was pretty dismal. Human nature has not changed.
Part of the problem is that our kids have not shared in the experiences and hard-learned discoveries that brought us to our current level of commitment to God. This week, many students are likely distracted by warmer weather outside, wrapping up winter sports, getting deeper into spring sports, and an ever-growing network of digital “friends.” Some of them might even be studying.
God has laid it at our feet to get their attention and pass the spark on in a way that has the best chance to catch flame. Specifically, the goal is to get them to internalize their responsibility to obey Him first and above all.
We’ve drawn our talking points for the week from Deuteronomy 6:1-9. As you look for opportunities to fall into conversation with your teen this week, maybe a few of these questions will spur some constructive dialogue on the issue of owning their need to obey God.
Talking Points:
[Make it clear that you’re not looking to scold or correct your student before asking this question:]
Who in your life has the right to tell you what to do?
In just a few years, you’ll be out on your own. Who do you think will have the right to tell you what to do then?
Who do you think has the right to tell me [the parent] what to do?
Where does the authority come from to give one person the right to tell another person what to do?
Does the person being told always have to agree to it?
Do you believe God has the right to tell everyone what to do, no matter what? Why or why not? What are the consequences of disobeying God?
What are the benefits of obeying God?
What are some of the things God tells you and me we must (or must not) do?
Are His commands reasonable?
If we obey God, does He owe us anything?
Should we expect our lives to be easier?
Should we expect not to suffer anything awful?
Which is more important to God, that we love Him or obey Him?
Do you think the two are connected? (See John 14:15.) What does it mean to you to love God with all of your heart, soul, and strength?
Do you think it means to obey Him the best we can possibly do?
God tells me [the parent] to make sure you know all about His commands to you and how important it is for you to follow them. How am I doing at that?
How could I obey that command better?
How could I improve in helping you to follow and obey God more closely?
Imagine being a parent of someone your age; how would you make sure that he or she was learning to obey God first?
Featured Resource: Wisdom On Getting Along with ParentsThis book is about giving teenagers insight and understanding into the dynamics of their relationship with their parents, and helping them learn to use wisdom when they interact with you.Receive 30% off Wisdom On Getting Along with Parents using coupon code RWPN101 by April 4th, 2009.http://www.realworldparents.com/store/item/wisdom_on_getting_along_with_parents/
2. Learn Their Lingo
Sky Up = to exit or leave a place
YIC = text message lingo for “Yours in Christ”
3. Movie Reviews for Parents
"Race to Witch Mountain"There is no witch in “Race to Witch Mountain,” just a couple of alien kids who need The Rock to help them find their… Read Review:http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/race_to_witch_mountain/ Street Figher: The Legend of Chun-Li
“Street Fighter” didn’t set any box office records, but it is aimed squarely at young action fans, including those who have spent time with the… Read Review:http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/street_figher_the_legend_of_chun-li/
4. Links to Learn From
Scholarships Drying Up [Associate Press]http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hAgWZsDAa8xaSjrav7_IW8i7a06AD96SCVF80
Teen Conflicts Linked to Potential Risk for Adult Cardiovascular Disease [Science Daily]http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090310124859.htm
Hyperactivity Helps ADHD boys with memorization [Ans Technica]http://arstechnica.com/science/news/2009/03/hyperactivity-helps-adhd-boys-with-memorization.ars
Celebrate a Passover Seder
http://www.echothestory.com/index.php/blog/comments/celebrate_a_passover_seder_with_your_group
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
No matter how calmly you try to referee, parenting will sometimes produce bizarre behavior … and I’m not talking about the kids.- Bill Cosby
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
2. Learn Their Lingo
3. Movie Reviews
4. Links to Learn From
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
From http://www.realworldparents.com/starters/
This Week: Obeying God First
The challenge we face in communicating our commitment and passion for obeying God to our kids is not a new one, of course. It’s the same challenge the nation of Israel faced with each new generation. And we know they were not always successful. In fact, their record was pretty dismal. Human nature has not changed.
Part of the problem is that our kids have not shared in the experiences and hard-learned discoveries that brought us to our current level of commitment to God. This week, many students are likely distracted by warmer weather outside, wrapping up winter sports, getting deeper into spring sports, and an ever-growing network of digital “friends.” Some of them might even be studying.
God has laid it at our feet to get their attention and pass the spark on in a way that has the best chance to catch flame. Specifically, the goal is to get them to internalize their responsibility to obey Him first and above all.
We’ve drawn our talking points for the week from Deuteronomy 6:1-9. As you look for opportunities to fall into conversation with your teen this week, maybe a few of these questions will spur some constructive dialogue on the issue of owning their need to obey God.
Talking Points:
[Make it clear that you’re not looking to scold or correct your student before asking this question:]
Who in your life has the right to tell you what to do?
In just a few years, you’ll be out on your own. Who do you think will have the right to tell you what to do then?
Who do you think has the right to tell me [the parent] what to do?
Where does the authority come from to give one person the right to tell another person what to do?
Does the person being told always have to agree to it?
Do you believe God has the right to tell everyone what to do, no matter what? Why or why not? What are the consequences of disobeying God?
What are the benefits of obeying God?
What are some of the things God tells you and me we must (or must not) do?
Are His commands reasonable?
If we obey God, does He owe us anything?
Should we expect our lives to be easier?
Should we expect not to suffer anything awful?
Which is more important to God, that we love Him or obey Him?
Do you think the two are connected? (See John 14:15.) What does it mean to you to love God with all of your heart, soul, and strength?
Do you think it means to obey Him the best we can possibly do?
God tells me [the parent] to make sure you know all about His commands to you and how important it is for you to follow them. How am I doing at that?
How could I obey that command better?
How could I improve in helping you to follow and obey God more closely?
Imagine being a parent of someone your age; how would you make sure that he or she was learning to obey God first?
Featured Resource: Wisdom On Getting Along with ParentsThis book is about giving teenagers insight and understanding into the dynamics of their relationship with their parents, and helping them learn to use wisdom when they interact with you.Receive 30% off Wisdom On Getting Along with Parents using coupon code RWPN101 by April 4th, 2009.http://www.realworldparents.com/store/item/wisdom_on_getting_along_with_parents/
2. Learn Their Lingo
Sky Up = to exit or leave a place
YIC = text message lingo for “Yours in Christ”
3. Movie Reviews for Parents
"Race to Witch Mountain"There is no witch in “Race to Witch Mountain,” just a couple of alien kids who need The Rock to help them find their… Read Review:http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/race_to_witch_mountain/ Street Figher: The Legend of Chun-Li
“Street Fighter” didn’t set any box office records, but it is aimed squarely at young action fans, including those who have spent time with the… Read Review:http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/street_figher_the_legend_of_chun-li/
4. Links to Learn From
Scholarships Drying Up [Associate Press]http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hAgWZsDAa8xaSjrav7_IW8i7a06AD96SCVF80
Teen Conflicts Linked to Potential Risk for Adult Cardiovascular Disease [Science Daily]http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090310124859.htm
Hyperactivity Helps ADHD boys with memorization [Ans Technica]http://arstechnica.com/science/news/2009/03/hyperactivity-helps-adhd-boys-with-memorization.ars
Celebrate a Passover Seder
http://www.echothestory.com/index.php/blog/comments/celebrate_a_passover_seder_with_your_group
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
No matter how calmly you try to referee, parenting will sometimes produce bizarre behavior … and I’m not talking about the kids.- Bill Cosby
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Trying Harder
Contents
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
2. Learn Their Lingo
3. Movie Reviews
4. Links to Learn From
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
From http://www.realworldparents.com/starters/
Trying Harder
Is it possible that some of us have taken some of the challenge out of following Jesus for our kids? Have we described a relationship with God that is too easy, that only requires students to talk the talk and stay out of serious trouble? Is there value in setting the bar higher for our kids (and ourselves) and then making sure they notice the sweat involved in running after Jesus?
This last week, your teen’s world may have been full of basketball or other sports; thousands(!) of texts, Facebook messages, and Twitter updates; watching (or being curious about) all that sex, hype, and violence in “The Watchmen;” 30 - 40 hours of school and studying; and maybe 3 hours at church.
Where did working at following Jesus fit into that mix? This week’s talking points come from 2 Peter 3:3-9. If you get a minute to read it, you’ll be better prepared for whatever dialogue these questions church up. If your student uses the PlanetWisdom.com daily devo, he or she will be studying the same passage this week.
Talking Points:
Do you think that living the Christian life is an easy or a hard thing? Why?
What does it mean to you to walk with God every day or to live your life as a Christian? What does that look like?
Do you ever feel that getting serious about living for God is something for when you’re older? What do you think God expects from you right now?
What do you think He expects from me?
Do you think you’re missing anything you need to live the life God wants you to? Are you waiting for something to come together so you can follow Him better? [See 2 Peter 1:3.]
How many of God’s promises to you can you think of right now?
Do you think it should be easy or hard to stop doing sinful things? How about doing good things—should that just come naturally or should Christians have to work at it, even when God gives us the power to do it?
In 2 Peter, it says that we need to “make every effort” to turn our faith into actions. What kind of effort do you think we should be making?
What kind of work does it take to do good or to gain knowledge about God?
What does self-control mean to you? What are some of the areas of life in which God can help us to work at being self-controlled? Why is self-control so hard sometimes?
Do you know any Christians who really show brotherly kindness and love in an obvious way? Do you think that just comes naturally to them or have they worked in God’s power to make those choices?
Do you think you can waste your life as a Christian and not make the most of the life God wants you to live for Him?
How do you think Christians might act if they forgot God had forgiven their sins through faith in Jesus?
What the most important relationship in your life right now? How much of your life do you spend on that relationship? What is your highest priority? How much of your time do you spend working on that priority?
[Moms/Dads: Sometimes the stickiest wisdom you can give your kids is that of your own experience in following Jesus. Be sure to share your own failures and victories if you get the opportunity.]
Featured Resource: The Script
For students who want a new kind of devotional, The Script offers a new twist on the Gospel of John as they listen to, and reflect on a spoken word translation from youth ministry veteran, and former rapper, Fred Lynch. Each reading is followed by creative exercises, as well as prayer and journaling to help students take the Word of God to heart.
http://www.youthspecialties.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=426
2. Learn Their Lingo
4COL = Text Message short code for "For crying out loud."
Inbox Rot = Never responding to a friend request on Facebook or Myspace.
3. Movie Reviews for Parents
Street Figher: The Legend of Chun-Li
“Street Fighter” didn’t set any box office records, but it is aimed squarely at young action fans, including those who have spent time with the… Read Review:
http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/street_figher_the_legend_of_chun-li/
Madea Goes to Jail
Madea Goes to Jail
Tyler Perry’s “dramedies” are always packed with big worldview ideas. Even his crazy characters talk a lot about going to church and doing what the… Read Review:http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/madea_goes_to_jail/
4. Links to Learn From
Immigrants’ Children Look Closer For Love [Washington Post]
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/07/AR2009030701841.html
Teenage Stress Has Implications for Adult Health [UCLA]
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-03/uoc—tsh031009.php
Generation OMG [NY Times]
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/08/weekinreview/08zernike.html?pagewanted=1&_r=4&ref=weekinreview
How To Tell Your Teen is Abusing Drugs [Forbes]
http://www.forbes.com/2009/03/09/teen-drug-abuse-lifestyle-health-teen-drug.html
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.- Dale Carnegie
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
2. Learn Their Lingo
3. Movie Reviews
4. Links to Learn From
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
1. Tools for Parenting Teens
From http://www.realworldparents.com/starters/
Trying Harder
Is it possible that some of us have taken some of the challenge out of following Jesus for our kids? Have we described a relationship with God that is too easy, that only requires students to talk the talk and stay out of serious trouble? Is there value in setting the bar higher for our kids (and ourselves) and then making sure they notice the sweat involved in running after Jesus?
This last week, your teen’s world may have been full of basketball or other sports; thousands(!) of texts, Facebook messages, and Twitter updates; watching (or being curious about) all that sex, hype, and violence in “The Watchmen;” 30 - 40 hours of school and studying; and maybe 3 hours at church.
Where did working at following Jesus fit into that mix? This week’s talking points come from 2 Peter 3:3-9. If you get a minute to read it, you’ll be better prepared for whatever dialogue these questions church up. If your student uses the PlanetWisdom.com daily devo, he or she will be studying the same passage this week.
Talking Points:
Do you think that living the Christian life is an easy or a hard thing? Why?
What does it mean to you to walk with God every day or to live your life as a Christian? What does that look like?
Do you ever feel that getting serious about living for God is something for when you’re older? What do you think God expects from you right now?
What do you think He expects from me?
Do you think you’re missing anything you need to live the life God wants you to? Are you waiting for something to come together so you can follow Him better? [See 2 Peter 1:3.]
How many of God’s promises to you can you think of right now?
Do you think it should be easy or hard to stop doing sinful things? How about doing good things—should that just come naturally or should Christians have to work at it, even when God gives us the power to do it?
In 2 Peter, it says that we need to “make every effort” to turn our faith into actions. What kind of effort do you think we should be making?
What kind of work does it take to do good or to gain knowledge about God?
What does self-control mean to you? What are some of the areas of life in which God can help us to work at being self-controlled? Why is self-control so hard sometimes?
Do you know any Christians who really show brotherly kindness and love in an obvious way? Do you think that just comes naturally to them or have they worked in God’s power to make those choices?
Do you think you can waste your life as a Christian and not make the most of the life God wants you to live for Him?
How do you think Christians might act if they forgot God had forgiven their sins through faith in Jesus?
What the most important relationship in your life right now? How much of your life do you spend on that relationship? What is your highest priority? How much of your time do you spend working on that priority?
[Moms/Dads: Sometimes the stickiest wisdom you can give your kids is that of your own experience in following Jesus. Be sure to share your own failures and victories if you get the opportunity.]
Featured Resource: The Script
For students who want a new kind of devotional, The Script offers a new twist on the Gospel of John as they listen to, and reflect on a spoken word translation from youth ministry veteran, and former rapper, Fred Lynch. Each reading is followed by creative exercises, as well as prayer and journaling to help students take the Word of God to heart.
http://www.youthspecialties.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=426
2. Learn Their Lingo
4COL = Text Message short code for "For crying out loud."
Inbox Rot = Never responding to a friend request on Facebook or Myspace.
3. Movie Reviews for Parents
Street Figher: The Legend of Chun-Li
“Street Fighter” didn’t set any box office records, but it is aimed squarely at young action fans, including those who have spent time with the… Read Review:
http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/street_figher_the_legend_of_chun-li/
Madea Goes to Jail
Madea Goes to Jail
Tyler Perry’s “dramedies” are always packed with big worldview ideas. Even his crazy characters talk a lot about going to church and doing what the… Read Review:http://www.realworldparents.com/movies/review/madea_goes_to_jail/
4. Links to Learn From
Immigrants’ Children Look Closer For Love [Washington Post]
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/07/AR2009030701841.html
Teenage Stress Has Implications for Adult Health [UCLA]
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-03/uoc—tsh031009.php
Generation OMG [NY Times]
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/08/weekinreview/08zernike.html?pagewanted=1&_r=4&ref=weekinreview
How To Tell Your Teen is Abusing Drugs [Forbes]
http://www.forbes.com/2009/03/09/teen-drug-abuse-lifestyle-health-teen-drug.html
5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.- Dale Carnegie
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