Raising Children: Twelve Spiritual Goals

As men, we are called to be the spiritual leaders of our families (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). One way to determine how we are succeeding in our leadership roles is to set spiritual goals for our children. Work with them to achieve those goals, and occasionally assess their progress against those goals.

Dr. Michael Farris, in his book, What a Daughter Needs from Her Dad, lists 12 spiritual goals that, we, as fathers, should want our children to achieve before they are ready to leave home.

Dr. Farris’ list is as follows:

1. My child will be sure of his or her salvation.
2. My child will love and understand God’s Word.
3. My child will know and willingly obey God’s rules of right and wrong.
4. My child will know his or her individual spiritual gift(s) and call from God.
5. My child will be able to teach spiritual truths to others.
6. My child will be an effective witness.
7. My child will spend daily time with God.
8. My child will do acts of service for the good of others.
9. My child will exercise self-discipline.
10. My child will be in fellowship and under the authority of a local church.
11. My child will understand the power of prayer.
12. My child will maturely walk with God.

If you feel ill-equipped to lead your children in this area, please take advantage of the Men’s Ministry Project Timothy program so you can be discipled and equipped to be obedient to the command of discipling your children.

*** Taken from the book, What a Daughter Needs from Her Dad, by Michael Farris***

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