The arrow–– one of the most ancient weapons known to man. Fabricated through the millennia from easily accessible materials like wood and now with graphite and carbon, it is still a very powerful tool. In the hands of a skilled archer, a honed broad head can determine the outcome of a battle as well as whether or not a family goes hungry.

Psalm 127:3-5 compares children to arrows. “Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.”

The only problem with arrows is that they need to be launched by a skilled archer to hit their intended target. Most parents have the same question we did when the nurse handed over our newborn child, “What do I do with this?”

As I write, I’m listening to my teenage children sing around our piano. My heart is full, and I cherish every moment I can spend with them. I love to hear them share their hearts and dreams for the future.

Beverly and I have already launched one from our quiver. Did we prepare him for the world? Will he make wise decisions? Will he remember to balance his checkbook and save for a rainy day?

I can honestly say with a humble heart, we’ve tried to raise our children to hear and obey the voice of God. When our children were very young, we began to teach them the importance of communicating with God and listening as He speaks to their hearts. When we gathered around the breakfast table, the entire family joined in committing scriptures to memory. I often said to them, “These words are life. They are important to have in your heart, because when you are in prayer during the difficult times in your life, these scriptures will come to your mind to pray back to God. And He always honors his word.”

If you would hit the mark [at long-range], you must aim a little above it: Every arrow that flies feels the pull of the earth. — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Unfortunately, our children are inheriting a more challenging world than we grew up in, and it will oppose many of the values we have taught them.

We must encourage them to have their own relationship with God. Just model it before them. Your consistent authenticity will do more to encourage your children to know Him than anything you could possibly say. As they genuinely seek after him, God will reveal Himself.

Here are some ways we have encouraged our children in their walk with God:

• Consistently Attending Church – Regular church attendance gives your children opportunities to be around other believers who will encourage them in their walk with God. If you are not currently attending church, find people you know who are attending a church with an active children or youth program. One helpful site is churchfinder.com.
• Family devotions – We are not perfect, but we have tried to make it a priority to have a family devotion time once a week. If you feel weak in this area there are many great resources that can help. One resource that I really love is YouVersion Bible App. It includes many devotions for personal use as well as for family discussion.
• Be there – Yes, just be available when they are ready to talk about God and the inevitable struggles with their faith and their life.

The bull’s-eye for each of us is to pursue God’s purpose for our lives. Ultimately we will know we have succeeded as parents when our children are pursuing to know God and to make Him known to others.