Raising Godly Boys Minute

What does your son think about his looks? The media has been focusing a lot on a positive body image movement for girls. But it’s easy to forget that our sons can also feel pressure from peers to have a “perfect” body. How can you help your son have a healthy body image? First, and perhaps most importantly, get your son involved in outdoor physical activity. When he’s with friends, sweating, competing, and having a great time, he’ll feel good physically. Second, refrain from making comments about his body, whether good or bad. Compliment character traits instead– like how he prayed at dinner or how he was patient with his sister. And finally, memorize verses together about our intrinsic worth in Christ– the true source of ultimate confidence. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

In a time when boys are struggling to know their purpose and identity, look to the beautiful story of Christmas.  First, Jesus’ time on earth gives young men guidance. Jesus embodies Biblical masculinity. He  loves, heals, delivers, and sacrifices. Second, the Christmas story grounds boys. In our society where everything is fluid, the absolute truth of God’s word gives young men a foundation to stand on. Thirdly, the gift of Jesus Christ proves everyone’s infinite worth. And finally, the Christmas story is inspiring. Boys always want to know what’s at stake– and the life and death of Jesus proves that laying down our life for others is the greatest call. May these days of the holiday season remind your son– and you– to thank God for the amazing gift of redemption through Jesus. To learn about raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Is celebrating Christmas really important?  Does it matter?Today’s world seems ready to tear down any tradition that reinforces Christianity, family, and morality.  For our children, this can lead to confusion and despair.The simple act of celebrating Christmas, decorating and cooking special food, helping kids choose gifts for family members, anticipating the big day, and spending time together all reinforce the love of family.Explaining the reason for Christmas does even more–it points to God, and the good news that his son Jesus loves us all.So enjoy this Christmas, and know that you are giving your children more than the presents under the tree.  You are mentoring them in how to create a loving family, how to give of themselves to others, and teaching them about the love of God.For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

What sets a boy's heart on fire?Whether it's beating the next level, winning the next game, or paddling around the next bend, boys love a challenge.  And more than that, boys need a challenge.Put a group of boys in canoes, and they will turn it into a race or a competition to turn each other over.  Send them on a campout, and they'll race to see who can set their tent up first so they can go romp in the woods.You can let your son find his own challenges, or you can give him adventures that will build him up, create strong character, and teach him that he is an overcomer, and a force to be reckoned with.For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who are your families’ heroes?Take time in the month of November to teach children about great spiritual heroes - and also remember some of the heroes in your own life. Don't just let these days float by as missed opportunities while the culture is already trying to make money off of Christmas.  Redeem this time and use it as a stepping stone into the holiday season. Spend the month of November leading up to Thanksgiving learning some new spiritual heroes - and being thankful for familiar ones.Talk around the supper table about a godly person from history.  Or, share stories from your own pilgrimage.  The website Christian History Institute is a great resource for learning about people who have gone before us.  For information about raising your son into a godly man, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.