Time flies. 

Don’t blink.

They grow up so fast.

Raising children to become strong, independent adults is not easy. 

There are days filled with exhaustion, with guilt, with uncertainty. 

There are also special moments, victories, giggles, and contentment. 

We wouldn’t trade it for anything.  We take it all in.  We cherish the good, we endure the bad.  Some days we laugh, some days we cry, some days we do both.

For years we control what the eat, what they wear, when they go to bed.  We say no to some requests and yes to others.  We limit screen time and how much money they spend.  We know their friends and we support their interests.  We teach them to walk, ride a bike, and drive a car. We stay up late getting them to sleep, then waiting for them to come home by curfew.  

And then, before we know it, it’s time to let them go, let them not only fly, but soar…..they need to try out their wings. All by themselves. Without us.

And, as hard as it is, we let them.

We let go and let them grow.  We let them leave the nest.  We let them live the life they are meant to live.  We let them.  We can’t keep the hard things from them.  We can’t keep the lessons they need to learn from them.  We can’t keep the troubles or the hurt from them.  But what we can do is continue to lead them.

As we let go, they are facing something new.  They could be afraid and nervous. There will be times they feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or upset as they learn to navigate the newness.

Let them.

Then lead them to God’s presence for peace.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

As we let go, they might not know what to do.  They could fail or make poor choices. There will be broken hearts , disappointment, and set backs as they try to figure it all out.

Let them.

Then lead them to God’s truth.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

As we let go, they might be excited about the freedom, but apprehensive of the separation The might feel lost or left out. The could experience loneliness, animosity, or anxiety.

Let them.

Then lead them to God’s promises.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

As we let the go, there’s a good chance they will enjoy success, meet their goals, make new friends. They will want to share the good news and pursue their passions.

Let them.

Then lead them in God’s glory.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

If you are in a season of letting them go, let them.  But don’t forget to continue to lead them in God’s word and His love.