Grandparenting when Kids Walk Away from Faith: Dr. Crawford Lorrits & Larry Fowler of the Legacy Coalition

·25 min·2 clips

What do you do when you're told you can't talk to your grandkids about Jesus?

The episode begins with hosts Dave and Ann Wilson introducing guests Dr. Crawford Loritts and Larry Fowler from the Legacy Coalition, focusing on legacy and grandparenting. They immediately tackle the tough question of what to do when grandparents are not allowed to talk to their grandkids about Jesus. The hosts share that this is a common, heartbreaking issue, referencing a workshop on a cruise where parents wept over children walking away from faith. Larry Fowler advises that grandparents should lean into relationships during difficult times, not pull away, and love unconditionally. He gives examples like a daughter practicing witchcraft or a son marrying a man, stressing the importance of staying engaged without preaching. Crawford Loritts adds that grandparents cannot control a child's will but should continue to believe God, pray, and love in a way that leaves them 'delightfully confused.' He discusses creating traditions, like giving a Bible at age 13, to benchmark souls and provide stability. Larry Fowler shares a story of a grandmother who, forbidden from mentioning God, leaned in by taking her granddaughter to New York, where a lost camera was returned after she prayed silently, demonstrating God's provision. The conversation shifts to whether grandparents can over-grandparent, with Larry noting they must not parent unless invited. Crawford warns against hyper-control, which can handicap grandchildren, and emphasizes raising them to be independently dependent on God. They discuss detachment therapy as an epidemic, where families cut off relationships instead of resolving conflict, often due to control issues on both sides. Crawford shares how his son remembered his apologies more than his sins, modeling forgiveness. Larry recounts apologizing to his vegan grandson by adopting a vegan diet himself, showing humility. They explore the importance of gratitude and humility, with Crawford noting that integrity without humility leads to self-righteousness. Bruce, a father of young daughters, reflects on building a legacy through daily actions, like treasuring his wife. The episode concludes with information about the Legacy Summit and a call for financial partnership.

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