Session 4- Leaving Well

If your child were to move away tomorrow, how do you think they would describe your relationship at this point? What arises in you as you think about this question?

As you start to think about this approaching transition with your child, it is also important to think about the legacy you are leaving behind in their childhood and what you are setting them up for in adulthood. It is never too late for God to turn things around, but it has to start with your faith in action. Now is the time to leave nothing unsaid so your son or daughter can be launched into this next chapter, fully released from any pain of the past.

Scripture says that there is life and death in our tongue. What does your emerging adult need to hear from your words? We know throughout the history of scripture that God works through generations. He is also with you now, working throughout generations. May the words your life writes as one chapter ends and another begins, write a story you are proud for generations to come to read. You have the opportunity to lead by example. Your child is also exiting one season and entering another. The time is now to rid themselves of anything they don't want to carry with them in the future. As you model this for them in how you approach your relationship, how can you encourage them to do the same?

Pray this prayer: God, I see how you have moved through generations throughout history. Help me to see the good things I have inherited from previous generations as well as the bad. Forgive me for the ways I have failed as a parent. Help me to continue to introduce your love and leading into my family lineage. Empower me to take responsibility for my actions, speak words of life, and to leave a legacy that points others to you, King Jesus. Amen.

Reflection Questions + Prompts:

• What does your child need to hear you say? Ask the Holy Spirit to highlight to you anything that you may need to address with your student; there may be an apology or an affirmation that comes to mind. Share these with your child as the Spirit leads.

(If you feel led to address potentially painful things with your child in the coming days, we encourage you to create a non-judgemental space to listen to their experience after your conversation. Your presence is powerful. You can offer an apology for ways you’ve potentially failed and then simply listen to their experience. You do not need to defend or explain yourself, but allow Jesus to be your defender. Simply listen to their experience and validate their emotion. The Holy Spirit will be present and will comfort both of your hearts as you talk about sensitive topics).