Floyd Godfrey, PhD

In a world where conversations about human sexuality are often skewed by media and societal pressures, Christian parents face the daunting task of guiding their children through these complex waters with grace, truth, and wisdom. The Bible instructs us to “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6 ESV). This timeless wisdom underscores the importance of engaging in open and honest discussions about human sexuality within the sanctity of family dynamics, grounded in Christian principles.

Overcoming Personal Discomfort

Many parents may experience a sense of embarrassment or unease when broaching the subject of sexuality with their children and teens. This discomfort, while understandable, must be overcome to foster an atmosphere of trust and openness. Remember, your willingness to discuss difficult topics can pave the way for your children to approach you with their questions and concerns rather than seeking answers from less reliable or inappropriate sources.

Suggestions for Meaningful Dialogue

• Start early: Introduce age-appropriate conversations about the body, relationships, and love from a young age.
• Use biblical teachings: Anchor discussions in biblical principles, highlighting God’s design for sexuality and the value of purity.
• Create a safe space: Encourage questions and express your own vulnerabilities to create a judgment-free environment.
• Be patient: Understand that this is an ongoing conversation, not a one-time discussion.
• Educate about pornography: Discuss the realities and dangers of pornography in an age-appropriate manner, emphasizing its distortion of God’s design for sexuality.
• Seek resources: Utilize Christian books and resources to guide your conversations and provide biblical context.

Cultivating Comfort in Family Dynamics

Creating a family culture where discussions about human sexuality are normalized can significantly reduce the discomfort associated with these conversations. Parents can model this openness by sharing appropriate personal experiences, expressing their feelings, and consistently turning to scripture for guidance. This approach not only demystifies the topic but also integrates it naturally into the fabric of Christian living.

The Importance of Ongoing Dialogue

As children grow and develop, their understanding and curiosity about sexuality will evolve. Maintaining an open line of communication throughout their development is crucial. This ongoing dialogue ensures that as they encounter new situations and challenges, they feel supported and guided by their faith and family values.

Addressing Pornography

In today’s digital age, the topic of pornography is unavoidable and must be addressed proactively. Equipping children with a biblical perspective on the sanctity of the human body and the nature of genuine, loving relationships provides them with a strong foundation to resist the lure of pornography and other sexual temptations.

Encouragement for Parents

A parent’s role in guiding your children through the maze of human sexuality is both a privilege and a responsibility. With God’s wisdom and your loving presence, you can instill in them a deep respect for the gift of sexuality as designed by our Creator. Let us approach this task not with trepidation but with the confidence that comes from our faith in Christ.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they learned to develop adolescent intervention and programming. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey at www.FloydGodfrey.com.