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by Jaz James
As parents, we dream of our children growing up to live successful, happy, and meaningful lives. When your child’s career choice seems to go against everything you envisioned, it’s natural to feel heartbroken, confused, and even a little lost. If you’re struggling with your child’s decision to work as a stripper, I want to offer you hope, encouragement, and peace through a Christ-centered lens.
First, let me reassure you of one simple truth: God loves your child unconditionally, and His love for her or him has never wavered. No career choice, no decision, no path can separate from His grace and goodness. Romans 8:38-39 reminds us, *"Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."*
While you may feel hurt or even helpless watching your child make choices you don’t understand or agree with, remember that God is writing her or his story just as He is writing yours. Trust that He’s still working in their life, even if you can’t see it right now.
Your Role as a Parent is Powerful
It’s okay to feel the weight of emotions you’re carrying, but it’s essential to remember that you are still a crucial part of your child’s life. Your role as a loving, praying parent is powerful. Don’t underestimate the impact of your prayers, your grace, and your unwavering love.
You may not be able to change their career choices, but you can choose to be a constant source of love, support, and prayer. Ephesians 6:18 reminds us, And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. Bring your concerns to the Lord—every fear, every worry—and ask Him to guide your heart as you continue to love your child through this.
Embracing God's Grace for Both of You
It’s important to also extend grace to yourself in this season. As parents, it’s easy to feel like your child’s choices are a reflection of your parenting, but God’s grace covers both of you. Let go of guilt or shame you may be carrying, knowing that every journey is unique, and God is working through it all.
While you may not understand why your child is in this industry, believe that God’s grace and redemption are always at work. Never forget that God is in the business of transforming lives. Just as the prodigal son returned home to a loving father, there is always room for redemption, growth, and healing.
Continuing to Love Like Christ
Jesus calls us to love others as He loves us, and that starts right at home. Sometimes that love looks like having difficult conversations, and other times, it looks like simply listening without judgment. When you approach your child with the love of Christ, you mirror the heart of God, creating a space where transformation is possible.
Be encouraged by 1 Corinthians 13:7, Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love may not change the situation overnight, but it has the power to plant seeds of hope and healing in your relationship.
Trust God’s Plan
Though the road may feel uncertain, I encourage you to lean into God’s unchanging faithfulness. He is the author of every life story, and His plans are greater than anything we can imagine. Trust Him to guide your child, and know that He is using this season for His purposes.
In the meantime, continue to be the light of Christ in your child’s life. Let your love, your prayers, and your faithfulness remind them of the God who never gives up on any of us.
Remember: God is always working, even when we can’t see it.
Stay prayerful, and continue to trust that God has a beautiful plan for both you and your child. Keep believing that He will bring your child into the fullness of her or his potential in His perfect timing.