December 17, 2009
We have been exploring the gifts that parents and grandparents can give to their boys and girls, and not just at Christmastime! I have encouraged Christian adults to model a strong spiritual foundation and heritage to the next generation. I have urged the gift of adventure, creativity, and the love of learning.
Today, look with me at the parental gift of awareness and development of God-given talents and abilities in children. As Christians, we know that boys and girls are created with natural gifts and talents that represent God’s endowment to the human race. Because we are each so unique, every child must be viewed as a special treasure waiting to be released. The adults in that child’s life have the privilege of helping find that treasure and then developing it to the fullest.
Many children do not recognize their own gifts and talents. And they certainly cannot develop them without considerable help. Even obviously talented children need doors of opportunity to be opened for them. As a principal and teacher, I particularly cherish those children whose talents and abilities are not so obvious. All children inevitably ask the question, “What about me? Am I an important part of my family or class? Am I gifted? What can I do that is special?” When you as a Spirit-directed adult honestly and insightfully answer those questions, you are offering that boy or girl an incredible gift. You are seeing potential where their inexperienced eyes may see nothing of value.
What are some practical ways that you can help a child uncover their God-given inner treasure?
- First, break out of the mold that the world has made. Grades, outer beauty and athletic skill are all wonderful, but they are just the tip of the giftedness iceberg. When it comes to discovering your child’s unique contribution to God’s Kingdom, think outside of the world’s box.
- Let your son or daughter try things that might interest them without a “you’d better succeed or else” attitude that promotes fear of failure.
- Do not let a child quit something that has interested them too quickly the moment it gets hard. But, be wise. Try to discern when another attempt is worth it or when it is time to try something else.
- Ask other people what they see in your son or daughter. Sometimes obvious gifts, talents and abilities escape those who are too close to see clearly and objectively.
- Do not fall into the trap of comparing a child to siblings, or even comparing their dreams to your own. God made families and the Body of Christ diverse on purpose.
- Honor both success and failure as learning experiences. More often than not, an honest attempt is worth the effort, regardless of the results.
- Finally, pray with your child that God, who knows their every strength and weakness, will reveal His design in their young life.
I can attest in my own life that the gift of seeing good potential in me by the adults I trusted as a child made a big difference in my life.
This Heartland Focus broadcast was sponsored by the Promotion Committee of Heartland Christian Academy.