Adults These Days
Ephesians 6:1-4; Colossians 3:21
Food For Thought
Reread Ephesians 4:1–4 and Colossians 3:21. What counsel does Paul give to parents in how they relate to the youth in their households? How might this advice relate to any youth within our sphere of influence?
Think back to when you were a teenager. What kind of communication style from authority figures was most helpful in guiding you toward maturity? What kinds of communication were off-putting, discouraging, or angering?
What are some reasons why youth might be struggling to follow the guidance of the adults in their lives? What do you personally realize you have contributed to the problem?
Which of the four parenting styles (authoritarian, permissive, authoritative, or uninvolved) did you experience? If you are a parent, which of these do you find yourself resorting to? What are the strengths and weaknesses of that parenting style?
How would the kids in your life describe your manner of relating to them?