Parents

  1. Make the most of the time.  Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” We have been given extended time at home so be wise and make the most of this time by engaging with your student relationally and spiritually! Consider creating a time each day to put away digital devices so you can spend intentional time together without any distractions.

  2. Have fun!  2 Thessalonians 2:8 says, “So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” Paul helped show the Thessalonians his love for them not only through sharing the gospel with them, but also by sharing his life with them. Students care more about the spiritual guidance and wisdom you want to share when they first know that you care about them. An easy way to communicate your love and care to your student is by having fun with them! Here are some ideas of ways to have fun together at home and strengthen those family relationships. 

    -Play a board game together. 

    -Play their favorite video game with them.

    -Go for a walk or bike ride outside as a family.

    -Cook a meal together.

    -Have a family movie night.

    -Ask your student to show you their favorite YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok influencer. Watch with them, and ask what they like and enjoy about their videos.

  3. Point your student to Jesus.  2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Your student may be experiencing a whole range of emotions during this time. Frustration over canceled spring break plans, sadness over lost sports seasons, or confusion about why God would be allowing this to happen. Every emotion they are feeling is an opportunity to point them to the good news of Jesus. We live in a world broken by sin. Natural disasters, death, and disease are all results of the world’s brokenness. But like 2 Corinthians 5 reminds us, Jesus came to be our sin and brokenness for us. In exchange He offers us his righteousness, perfection, wholeness, and healing. He just asks us to trust and believe in Him. Whatever your student, or even you are feeling, there is hope in Jesus. He promises eternal life to those who believe in Him. We will feel the effects of sin’s brokenness in this lifetime, but God promises there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain” when we see Him face to face and experience the fullness of His redemption! (Revelation 21:4)

  4. Look for Biblical answers together.  Romans 11:33-34 says, “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! ‘For who has known the mind of the Lord?’” This unprecedented and odd time may be sparking some large and looming questions in the mind of your student. We are here to remind you that it is OK to not have all the answers! God’s wisdom and knowledge are bottomless in their depth and unknowable fully even in an entire lifetime. So don’t panic if your student asks a difficult question, but rejoice because that means they are seeking! In your honesty to share that you may not have the answer, but are willing to search it out together through God’s Word you model for your student of our need for God, His Word, and His Spirit.

  5. Use Hunter, Noel, & Corey as resources. Psalm 133:1 says, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.” What a sweet reminder that we are not alone! We love your students and are here to engage with them and be a help to you as you raise your student to know, love, and follow Jesus! We are always available to connect with your student through an email, text or call during these social distancing days. We are also here to pray for you, help answer some of those tough questions your student may be asking, or provide ideas for connecting fun and faith at home. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if there is any way we can help minister to your family.

Hunter Gregg 

Phone: 843-992-9883

Email: hgregg@doubleoakcc.org

Noel Steeley

Phone: 205-767-6319

Email: nsteeley@doubleoakcc.org