Dribbling to the Left

Whoever captures/wins souls is wise. (Proverbs 11:30)

Giving effort to win the souls of our kids is wise, whether or not our effort is given wisely. It’s right for us to want and to work to win our kids to want and to work to win.

To win in this context is to know that their soul should have a particular shape. And, just as we’re supposed to consider that goal, do you also know their current frame? Are you studying the game film? Are you learning their tells? Can they dribble to their left? Are you attentive? Are you curious? Are you asking questions at a high volume? Are you asking questions without settling for dumb answers while remaining calm? Yeah, you’re going to need wisdom.

A different way to think about winning souls is helping your kids become complete in Christ (Colossians 1:28).

We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. (NASB)

It requires individual attention. Three times in the verse: “every man.”

In what ways is each one of your kids growing in Christlike obedience and Spirit-filled fruit? In what ways is each one of your kids underdeveloped? Note also: “with all wisdom.”

Big talkers need to be won to reality. Non-talkers need to be won to the reality that not talking doesn’t let them off the hook. Which kind of kid needs more questions? Dad and mom, it is your job to figure that out. The ball is in your court.

Don’t have time? Then you don’t have the will to win.