Parenting with Hope
What does the Bible teach us about raising teens? In Parenting with Hope, Melissa Kruger shares how to raise teens for Christ in a secular age.
Abide
In Part 1, Kruger emphasizes from the start that ultimate contentment cannot be found in our children; it must come from Christ. Establishing early habits, such as spending time together in God’s Word, can leave a lasting impact. When we abide in the Bible, we are better equipped to engage with our children.
Prayer and involvement in the church are also highlighted as priorities. I found it particularly encouraging to read that the church provides a healthy environment for teens to experience community and belonging. Reflecting on my own upbringing, I resonated with Kruger’s assertion that “Life is better in the church.”
Idolatry
Part 2 of the book delves into the theme of idolatry. Kruger addresses the dangers of placing excessive importance on scholarship and affluence, sports and activities, and social acceptance and approval. As parents, we should demonstrate that our contentment doesn’t hinge on material wealth, but on the assurance that the Lord is always with us. Allowing our children to experience failure while providing unwavering support helps them learn valuable life lessons and feel loved. When it comes to competitive sports, Kruger advises us to prioritize character development and to be cautious of becoming overly busy.
I was particularly interested in Kruger’s chapter on social acceptance. By instilling in our children different values, standards, and aspirations than those promoted by the world, we can anchor them in God and shield them from the pressures of the world. Their joy can be rooted in the Lord rather than in seeking popularity.
Home
The book concludes by examining the home as a safe place of acceptance, availability, and affection. This vision translates into a household characterized by grace, hospitality, and warmth. At its core is the recognition that, as parents, we have our limits – but God does not. Therefore, it is essential to point our children to Christ as we navigate the challenges of parenting.
This book is my new top recommendation for parents of teens. Grounded in God, his word, and the gospel – it offers practical wisdom and a message of hope for the future.
I received a media copy of Parenting with Hope and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.