“We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance” (ESV). Those are powerful words from Romans 5:3. As parents, it’s tough watching our kids make mistakes, isn’t it? But the question is, “Would you rather have them make mistakes while they’re still living with you so you can correct them now or when they’re adults and those decisions are life-threatening or life-changing?” I think you’ll agree that even though it’s painful to watch our kids struggle while they’re under our roof, they need to be allowed to wrestle with life’s challenges, physically and spiritually, so we can help guide them. As they do, Scripture is clear: God will “restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish” them (1 Peter 5:10, ESV). We couldn’t ask for anything better than that.

Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. May not copy or download more than 500 consecutive verses of the ESV Bible or more than one half of any book of the ESV Bible.

Suggested Reading: Romans 5:3, 1 Peter 5:10