Like Arrows: Christian Film Focused on Parenting
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Like Arrows: Christian Film Focused on Parenting was made possible with access to an advance screener to view for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
Parenting is tough.
Even if you think you have it ‘right’, a child will do something unexpected that may find you in a tailspin.
But, I’ve seen some people who seem to have it together. Their kids have grown into wonderful Christian adults. And, this is something I desire for my own boys.
While there are many studies out there, sometimes a book or movie can project key points to get you started.
About Like Arrows
FamilyLife’s first feature film explores the challenges and joys that come with raising children.
When conflict, rebellion, and resentment overwhelm their family, Charlie and Alice are forced to rethink their parenting strategy.
In the process, they realize how critical intentionality and focus are when shaping and molding young lives.
Through a journey that unfolds over 50 years, Charlie and Alice discover the unmistakable power of family. Together, they learn that knowing and living by God’s Word is what brings transformation and hope to any family.
“Like Arrows” stars Alan Powell (“The Song”), Alex Kendrick (“War Room,” “Courageous”) and newcomer Micah Lynn Hanson. It was directed by Kevin Peeples.
About FamilyLife
For more than 41 years, the ministry of FamilyLife has focused on strengthening marriages and families.
Through initiatives such as The Art of Marriage®, FamilyLife Today® radio broadcasts, Love Like You Mean It® marriage cruises, and FamilyLife Blended®, FamilyLife provides practical, biblical help for life’s most important relationships: God, spouse and children.
With nearly 12 million unique visitors from dozens of countries, FamilyLife.com has become one of the most popular websites for practical biblical help and hope on almost every issue facing marriages and families today.
My Thoughts on Like Arrows
This is definitely a movie I recommend any Christian parent view. Even if you do not share the exact theology projected in the film, there are gems contained that apply to any denomination.
While watching this film, you will join Charlie and Alice on their family’s journey.
From the unexpected pregnancy which precipitated their marriage sooner than they’d planned, to struggles with how to raise a family, and finally finding the footing they needed to have a Christ-centered family, you get a front-row seat.
Sometimes the path you may think was ‘good’ as it resulted in well-behaved children is really one that encourages the child to hide their failings.
This is something Alice discovers when their eldest son, Ronnie, departs for college.
She finds drugs and evidence that he is actively exploring anti-Christian worldviews. His response is to say “You did good.” to his mom in reference to raising him. But, the sentiment is that her hold on him is over.
It isn’t until their second born child, Kate, is discovered sneaking out on dates with a much older boy that they realize something needs to change. Lecturing and yelling won’t do the job.
But, attending the Art of Parenting class at their church does help. Instead of seeking compliant children, it focuses on the idea of putting spiritual development at the center of life.
This is where the idea of children as arrows in your quiver is introduced.
Like an archer who can only hit their target with careful aim, a child needs to be trained so that Christ is the center of their lives before releasing them into the world.
Their 50th Anniversary celebration shows the fruit of their efforts. Three of their four children present them with letters expressing their gratitude.
These are the children who partook of the family Bible study times and experienced one on one time with their parents. These are the children who’s arrows were well formed.
It is also when their long-estranged eldest son returns home.
The family welcomes this prodigal son back into the fold. In the final scene, you witness Charlie writing about Ronnie accepting Christ as an answered prayer.
Final Takeaway
If you enjoy Christian films and how they often present a lesson, then Like Arrows should be on your calendar. They had a limited showing at select theaters across the United States on May 1 and 3, 2018. You can now purchase Like Arrows on DVD.
Through this story, you can find comfort that your failings as a parent are not unique. Everyone struggles. But, through God, all things are possible. We just need to embrace our job as being faithful and allow God to change the hearts of others.
Other Movies You May Enjoy
I Can Only Imagine: A Movie About the Story Behind the Song
Unplanned: From Planned Parenthood to Pro-Life **includes thoughts on kids watching this film
Beyond The Sun: Adventure & a Message of God’s Love