Having ”One-on-One Time” With Your Kids

How can we enumerate one-on-one time with growing kids from Biblical examples?

One-on-one time with growing kids is essential for building strong relationships and providing individual attention. While the Bible doesn't explicitly mention "one-on-one time”, we can find examples of personal interactions and intentional investment in relationships. Here are a few biblical examples that highlight the significance of spending individual time with children:

Jesus and His Disciples: Jesus serves as the ultimate example of investing in personal relationships. He spent significant time with His disciples, teaching, mentoring, and sharing life with them. Jesus showed care and interest in each disciple individually, knowing them intimately and addressing their specific needs. This model encourages parents to spend quality time with their children, getting to know them individually and nurturing a personal connection.

David and Solomon: King David prioritized individual time with his son Solomon. In 1 Chronicles 28:9, David addresses Solomon, saying, "And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind." David's words reveal that he had taken personal time to impart wisdom, guidance, and a strong faith foundation to his son. This example reminds parents of the importance of investing in their children's spiritual development through personal, intentional conversations.

Eli and Samuel: In 1 Samuel 3, Eli, the priest, takes Samuel under his wing. Although not a biological father, Eli serves as a spiritual mentor to Samuel. The narrative depicts Eli spending individual time with Samuel, guiding him in recognizing and responding to God's voice. This example illustrates the significance of older, wiser individuals investing personal attention and mentorship into the lives of younger ones.

Paul and Timothy: The apostle Paul had a close mentoring relationship with Timothy. In his letters to Timothy, Paul provided personal guidance, encouragement, and instruction. Paul's investment in Timothy's life and ministry demonstrates the importance of intentional one-on-one discipleship, teaching, and nurturing the next generation.

Based on these examples, parents can apply biblical principles to prioritize individual time with their children. This can include activities such as engaging in meaningful conversations, listening attentively to their thoughts and concerns, participating in shared hobbies or interests, and providing guidance and support tailored to each child's unique needs.

By setting aside intentional one-on-one time, parents can create a safe and loving environment where children feel valued, heard, and understood. This dedicated attention helps build trust, strengthens the parent-child relationship, and provides an opportunity to impart wisdom, nurture faith, and support their growth and development.

Jesus and The Children: In Mark 10:13-16, parents brought their children to Jesus so that He might touch them. The disciples initially tried to prevent the children from approaching Jesus, considering it an inconvenience. However, Jesus rebuked them, saying, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Jesus then took the children in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them. This interaction highlights Jesus' love and care for children, as well as His willingness to have personal, one-on-one encounters with them.