What would you tell me 20 years from now if I asked you the following question? What was the major influence in your child’s life, growing up, that guides their life today? You may know it or you may not. You may think you know what it is, but not even be close. I can tell you one thing with certainty! It is either Jesus Christ or antichrist.
It is our desire that our children walk in truth!
The world it filled with two things: truth and lies. God is truth and His truth is given to us by his son Jesus Christ, the Word of God. Contrast this to the devil who is called “a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44 (KJV) These two spiritual forces war against each other. The outcome of this war is certain, the followers of truth will have life eternal, while the followers of lies will be judged with eternal punishment. With this before us, let us consider the desired outcome for our children’s future.
I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we received commandment from the Father. 2 John 1:4 (KJV)
What a joyous time it would be, while in our old age, to see our children walking in truth! This will not happen unless we do the right things now as parents. We are faced with intense competition for the hearts of our children.
For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 2 John 1:7 (KJV)
These deceivers are working for the devil. While the devil is the father of lies, he is also “transformed into an angel of light.” 2 Corinthians 11:14 (KJV) This makes it even more difficult to discern the truth according to our own wisdom. However, God makes this easy for us.
Whosoever transgressth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 2 John 1:9 (KJV)
This is a test that you can apply to everything you do or allow into your home. What doctrine does it teach? Is it the doctrine of Christ? This is important to do! Make it a habit so that you change your way of thinking. Why is this so critical? It affects your children’s future! Who you are and what you do affects your children’s future. The influences you allow into your home affects your children’s future. What and who will they follow?
Try this as you go through your day. Examine the influences that are in your home. Does it teach the doctrine of Christ? How about that radio program you listen to? What about that TV show? Have you looked at the catalogs and magazines that come in the mail? What about the textbooks you use in your homeschool? Even things which others give to you or bring into your home (with good intentions) can be a problem. Question everything!
These are tough issues and I wouldn’t give you a list of things to get rid of. I only ask these questions to you, as I ask them to myself. What you do is between you and the Lord. Seek Him in prayer on this matter and then listen for His answer. Read God’s word and listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:22 (KJV)
God bless, Mike