Each of my kids displays different gifts. When you help them develop and hone these gifts and talents, you exercise positive influence in the life of each of them. There are a few different ways that this can be seen in each of our lives.

Here are some of the ways this can play out:

Skills – My daughter has honed her skills in art, especially over the last year. She has some natural ability, but not excessive. However, she has dedicated herself to learning and improving in this area. As a result, she has improved dramatically, and it shows. This is because of her dedication to learn and grow in this area.

Talents – My son is extremely creative. As a very young child, he envisioned an eagle, made from a paper towel tube, some paper, and some tape. However, he didn’t have the motor skills to manage that at that point in his life; he was three or four. As he explained to my wife what to do, this creation emerged, and it is simply incredible. When moved, the wings actually flap! My other kids have difficulty attaining this level of creativity; their talents lie in other areas.

Interests – Your kids have different interests from one another, and from you. While I have little interest in sports, my daughter loves to play volleyball and is a cheerleader. Another daughter could care less about sports at this time in her life. She is much more interested in pets, and loves spending time with animals. Each of your children will develop different interests. Encouraging them in this will go a long way to retaining influence in their lives as they grow.

Spiritual Gifts – As your kids grow in their relationship with Christ, their spiritual gifts will begin to emerge. This area is perhaps the best way for you to encourage and influence your kids. For example, it is evident to me that one of my daughters exhibits the spiritual gift of compassion and mercy, based on the way she builds relationships with others. One of my sons definitely has the gift of giving. He is willing to give anything of his, whether that is possessions, money, time or effort, to help another. I do everything I can to encourage each of my kids in this area more than almost anything else.

Helping your kids develop their gifts is an incredible way to exercise positive influence influence in their lives, for years to come!

Be deliberate, Dad!

What can you do to help your kids develop their gifts and abilities? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.