"Like Riding a Bike"
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What do people mean when they say something is "like riding a bike"? How is snowboarding or learning a language in any way "like riding a bike"? They mean it tends to stick with you once you get it — it becomes ingrained so time doesn't wipe away all your practice. In some ways, training up a child is like teaching them to ride a bike. You put on training wheels before they can balance independently. And then, eventually, you take them off and hold the back of their seat. But at some point, it's time to let go so they can ride on their own, and maybe fall a few times. So, as we begin, let's explore the great responsibility we have as parents to support, shepherd, and send our kids out into the world.
The Big Idea
Our leadership throughout our children's lives ingrains the truths, traits, and habits they'll need. Scripture gives us an encouraging principle when it says, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it" (Prov. 22:6). In other words, when we teach them to live well, they won't easily forget it.
We try to provide stable foundations for our children early on. We focus on our covenant bond with our spouse. We make God the center of our home. We speak truthfully and we train them with love and care.
As they grow, we shepherd and shape them, looking heavenward to God's example and urging them to follow us. We get clear about our goals, grab life's tiny teaching moments, and model God's grace in their lives. And we communicate clearly and openly with them.
One day we'll send them out into the world, always there for them through troubling times, praying that we've done our best to instill a dedication to God. Imagine the blessing of calling our adult children "Brother" or "Sister" in Christ. What a gift, but what a task we have before us!
The Big Question
In what areas of your parenting are you looking to grow?
