There are so many changes that happen in boys during their tween and teen years. It can be challenging as we as parents help them navigate what can be a tumultuous time. Some of us want to retreat out of fear that we will push our teenage boy away. But instead of retreating, we need to lean in and be even more intentional! This is the time when love is definitely on their mind and future relationships are pondered.
In our home, our kids are encouraged to have friends of the opposite sex, but not allowed to date until they are in college. It helps to protect them from wasted emotion and relationship drama that can happen when teenagers are dating. But we definitely talk about relationships often to help prepare them for when they do reach college age. One thing we have learned with one son who has graduated from high school, two other teenagers and one tween is that it is constant listening and guiding. We talk openly about God’s desire for our relationships to honor Him and be used for His glory. We have also found it helpful to have outside resources to solidify what we have taught them and see things from a different perspective.
Although we have used many different books over the years, My Son, If You Accept My Words is a new resource that I just love. It is a handbook written for boys to learn what it means to follow God with everything they are in love and relationships. Topics like temptation, marriage, fatherhood, and much more are explored. The author, Sondra Lee wrote this originally for her own son, but after much prayer and counsel published it for others to pass along to their sons as well.
Each chapter explores someone’s life and story from the Bible. Everyone from Ruth to Samson and Delilah to Joseph are used as examples to learn from. I love that not only are they getting sound Bible reading, but they are getting real-life applications and lessons of wisdom from each story!
Here is an excerpt after reading Genesis 26:1-9 in the book:
Isaac chose not to be honest about Rebekah being his wife. He ultimately displayed his doubt in the Lord’s sovereignty and in His ability to protect his family by choosing to deceive the men into thinking Rebekah was his sister instead of his wife. This small act of worldly intelligence to protect his family had profound consequences. Never underestimate the power of your witness in seemingly harmless acts and small deceptions. Lies that you reason are acceptable because of your circumstances have tremendous consequences.
I love how real this book is. It is heartfelt and compassionate. Sondra does an excellent job of telling truth in a way that empowers the reader to live wisely. As I read through, I didn’t feel like I was being talked down to, but rather encouraged to live in a certain way because there is honor and freedom in a life lived for God. It feels empowering!
Here is how the author describes the book:
My Son, If You Accept My Words serves as a resource for young men in their study of God’s Word in order for them to see the practical application of His Word in their own life and, hopefully to help equip them to make wise decisions for their future. Lee hopes that each chapter will be preceded by prayer for wisdom and discernment and that the Lord will use this book to open the hearts and eyes of our young men to their calling to be leaders, warriors and servants. This collection of devotional writings offers young men a guide based in biblical wisdom and is intended to help them find more joy and faith on their life’s journey.
This book doesn’t read like your typical book, but rather like a letter to someone you love and care about. I think it is a great addition to the many resources we can encourage our sons with! You can learn more about the book <HERE>.
XO,
Ruth
Disclosure: This post is written in partnership with Sondra Lee and Westbow Press. All opinions are 100% honest and my own.
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