Parents Say the Craziest Things

Last week we had Vacation Bible School at Mansfield Baptist Church. It was a phenomenal week of fun and Bible study. We had children everywhere as God blessed us with incredible attendance.

Many of our own church kids were able to come. But, we also had a slew of kids that don’t go to our church on a regular basis. Some of those are in other churches and some don’t go to church regularly at all. But, parents trusted us with their children, and we had the remarkable privilege of sharing the love of Jesus with them.

Seeing all of these children, especially the ones who were visiting our church, reminded me of a mind-set that parents sometimes have that I believe goes against what the Bible teaches. Some parents believe that they should let their children grow up and decide for themselves what their own faith expression should be.

These parents choose to not influence the faith journey of their children so as to not sway the kids one way or another. That mentality is one of the craziest things I have ever heard parents say.

If you are a Christian and God blesses you with the opportunity to impact the lives of children—your children or grandchildren or even other kids you can influence—it is your responsibility and your calling to share the truth of who Jesus is and what He has done for us through His crucifixion and resurrection. You should be pouring Christ into these children intentionally and consistently.

There is a spiritual battle that is going on for the heart and soul of that dear child that you love so much. Eternity is at stake for that child. Please do not miss any opportunity to influence that child for Jesus. This is way too important to “hope” that your child catches on to the truth about Jesus somewhere along the way. You must be praying diligently and sharing faithfully about Jesus and showing consistently the love of Jesus. Any lost opportunity is giving up ground to the enemy.

Oh, you did not realize there is an enemy?

First Peter 5:8 says: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (NIV). One “someone” that the devil is prowling around looking for and wanting to devour is that child that you love so much. Satan will do anything to keep your child from learning the truth about Jesus.

Your choice to let your child grow up without intentionally teaching him or her about Jesus makes Satan very happy. I guarantee you that Satan will not afford you the same luxury. Satan will drag down and destroy your child if he can. He loves not having to battle the work of Christ in your child’s life. The stakes are too high.

Please share and show Christ with the children in your life. Especially you, Dads. Happy Father’s Day!