Raising Kids for Tomorrows World (Review and Giveaway)

 

Many Christian families taking the plunge into homeschooling are not only first-generation homeschoolers, but first-generation Christians. Raising Kids for Tomorrow's World: 12 Keys to Preserving the Faith by Stan and Cheryl Schuermann is the perfect tool for Christian families just getting started or who have hit a roadblock in their homeschooling or parenting in general. Eager and excited, those who are beginning to build their spiritual foundation later in life often need wisdom and guidance from those who trailblazed ahead of them. This book is a guidebook for anyone seeking parenting wisdom, regardless of upbringing or past experiences. 

The Parenting Struggle in Homeschooling

If you are struggling in your homeschool, and I mean really struggling, consider taking a step back and asking yourself this:

Is the problem with the academics or the parenting?

I've had to ask myself this question several times throughout the years, tighten the reins, and chart a new course in our routine. This might look like:

• Changing bedtimes
• Revoking privileges
• Requiring first-time obedience in areas where I received pushback
• Prioritizing discipleship over academics

The last one is hard. I have found that at times, working through emotions, hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and frustration is what a child needs more than finishing a sheet of busywork. Think of it as “going to the principal's office.” In public school, a child isn't ignored when he is causing a disruption. No one thinks twice about the work he will miss when he is sent to the office. No one cares because the issue is being dealt with and peace is being restored in the classroom once again. Sometimes, we are unable to see peace restored in our homes until certain attitudes or issues are dealt with. The school work can happen later or another day.

What Does Discipleship Look Like in the Home?

Raising Kids for Tomorrow's World: 12 Keys to Preserving the Faith provides practical and powerful keys that you can utilize in your home right away. The twelve keys broken down for home discipleship are:

Key 1: Discover Boldness

Key 2: Persevere in the Midst of Conflict

Key 3: Accept Your Assignment

Key 4: Shepherd with Your Words

Key 5: Embrace Motherhood the Way God Intends

Key 6: Love and Live the Upright Life

Key 7: Do Fatherhood the Right Way

Key 8: Teach for the Worthy Walk

Key 9: Help Your Children Discern God's Call

Key 10: Pray without Ceasing

Key 11: Demonstrate How God's Word Works

Key 12: Be the One Your Children Want to Imitate

How Can I Add This Devotional 

Into My Routine?

This concise Bible study is an easy-to-implement resource perfect for families, homeschoolers, adult Sunday Schools, or small groups. Husbands and wives looking for a Bible study to work through together could use this to help build a firm foundation in their home. Homeschool moms desiring a Bible study to use in their own quiet times could work through this in less than a month, even when spreading out each lesson over two days. I appreciate how the first lesson focuses on salvation, which is perfect for discipleship settings for experienced women seeking to come alongside a younger woman who might be new to the faith. Additionally, this would work well in a small group setting. 

How Is This Devotional Formatted?

This Christian devotional includes questions to consider, application questions, and a wide variety of inspirational quotes from authors, speakers, and pastors including:

• A.W. Tozer
• R.C Sproul
• John Calvin
• John Piper
• And More

 Is This a Recommended Resource?

Absolutely! When my husband and I were new parents, we were blessed with training and resources from our church that taught us together how to raise our kids. I highly recommend this method—learning together. Being on the same page helps to keep unity in the home and prevents confusion. This resource would have been a well-received addition if it was available then. Both points of view are presented from the husband and wife, practical biblical solutions are offered, and thought provoking questions allow for open ended discussion. This is highly recommended! 

What Else Will I Find Within These Pages?

1. Application questions such as:

• How will you direct your children to the true joy and contentment God desires for their life?

• When you look five or ten years down the road, what do you desire to see in your children’s lives?

• What steps can you take now to instruct them in how to live an other-centered life?

2. Relatable stories and experiences.

3. A focus on Paul's ministry to the Thessalonians.

4. How to pastor and disciple your children. 

5. How to pray.

6. Surviving the teen years.

This book shares how during the eighteen or so years that our children are in our home, life will hand them many puzzle pieces. The author mentions that some will fit together easily, while others will be confusing and challenging. As parents, it is our job to help them assemble the pieces. Yet sometimes we ourselves are at a loss as to how to teach and guide them biblically, practically, and with grace. This book helps parents gain the confidence needed to guide and and teach regardless of where they are in their journey. 

Listen to an Interview with the Authors

 

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Disclaimer: Many thanks to the authors of the above resource for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.