Stay away from evil; hold on to what’s good.
Does that mean we reject people? A friend of mine posted a long, complaining, and critical note about a political leader. She was pointing out all the person’s faults and sins and then asked how Christians could support someone like that. As parents, sometimes WE do that, don’t we? We point out the worst in people and tell our kids to stay away from them. The question I have is—how can we expect unredeemed sinners to act like anything other than unredeemed sinners? If we’re constantly pointing out someone’s faults, how are they going to see Christ if we’re constantly poking them in the eye? Jesus was accused of being a friend of sinners. What are WE doing to reach them?
What’s our parental mission statement?
In a culture where mission statements and strategic plans are important for organizations and businesses, I’m wondering if you know what your mission is as a parent. Yes, we’re here to nurture and protect our kids, but is it to give them everything they need to be successful? Is it good for us to make our kids top priority in our lives? Shouldn’t our priorities be to put God first, our spouses second, and everything else third? Why? Well, when we put our kids first, they can become entitled and selfish. Shouldn’t our mission be to point them to a Savior who can give them the most important thing—eternal life? Statistics say 70% of Christians who come to Christ do so between their 4th and 14th birthdays.* I hope that’s your mission. * “An Introduction to the 4/14 Window,” ExplainEDtv, YouTube.com
Why is Good Friday good?
Good Friday—it sounds like a strange name for the day Jesus died, doesn’t it? But for us, it’s the best kind of good. Because without the cross, there’s no forgiveness. No hope. No resurrection. No possibility of salvation. This is the perfect day to slow down and explain the Gospel to our kids and grandkids. Keep it simple: Jesus took our place so we could be with Him forever. Don’t skip over the hard part—His suffering shows just how serious sin is…and how deep His love goes. Let’s help our kids understand the cost of grace and mercy—and the joy of knowing that they can be truly forgiven if they simply believe and call upon His name.
Do we talk about sanctity of life in our family?
Our kids are growing up in a world that devalues life—whether it’s the unborn, the elderly, or the disabled. But Scripture tells us something different. Every life—every single one—is precious to God. Psalm 119:13-14 says in part, “You knit me together…I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Are we teaching our kids that? Are we helping them see that life begins in the womb? That every person has value, not because of what they can do, but because they’re made in the image of God? Don’t wait for school or culture to shape their thinking. Let’s be the first voice—God’s voice—speaking truth into their hearts.
My kids are always freaking out!
Have you noticed how anxious kids are these days? School stress. Social pressure. Global chaos. Even our young ones are carrying heavy burdens. Crazy thing is, we are too. So how do we help? First—let’s focus on Jesus. He’s our peace, not our spiritual perfectionist. Pray with them. Remind them that God’s in control—even when life feels out of control. Even that is there to help mold us into who He wants us to be. Memorize Scripture with them. Spend time in devotions like Keys for Kids or Unlocked. Philippians 4 says not to be anxious about anything, but to bring everything to God in prayer. That promise isn’t just for us—it’s for our kids too. Let’s teach them to trust, not tremble.
Marriage is still sacred, but do my kids think so?
Marriage is under attack today. Our kids are seeing everything from cohabitation to same-sex relationships portrayed as normal—even celebrated. But God designed marriage—between one man and one woman—for His glory. Are we teaching that clearly at home? Don’t let culture define marriage for your kids. Talk openly. Show them what a godly marriage looks like. Be honest about mistakes. Talk about commitment, sacrifice, and love rooted in Christ and God’s Word. And most importantly—pray with your kids about their possible future spouse. Marriage matters. Let’s raise the next generation to not just honor God’s design but continue a legacy of faith to the next generation.
Cancel culture is scary, how do I help my kids?
Cancel culture—it’s everywhere. One wrong counter-cultural opinion, and you’re out. Our kids are watching this happen and wondering: Should I stay quiet about my faith in Christ? Parents, we’ve got to raise bold kids who stand for truth—even when it costs them. Remind them of Daniel. Of Paul. Of Jesus. God honors those who stand firm. Will it be easy? No. But He’s worth it. Teach your kids to speak the truth in love, not fear. When I say truth, I mean Scripture. Speaking that will always accomplish its intended purpose and not return to Him empty or without effect. And remind them—God’s approval matters more than any “likes” or followers. Get the Unlocked teen devotional at https://unlocked.org/subscribe
Chances are, we’re lying to our kids.
“You’re the best!” “You were singing better than everybody up there.” “You hit the ball further than all the other kids.” If it’s true, you’re not lying. But if they’re not the best, is it lying to tell our kids these things, or should we be truthful? I know it’s important to help our kids with confidence. We need to show them how much we believe in them, but lying to them may hurt your relationship. Eventually, they’ll figure it out. Some will even wonder, “What else are they lying about?” Say things like, “You really gave it your all today, didn’t you? I’m so proud of you.” Or, “Your practice really paid off, didn’t it? Great job.” Speaking the TRUTH in love can build trust for the future.
I just found out my kid’s a cheater.
That’s embarrassing. You raised your kids to love the Lord, be honest, work hard, and be a person of integrity. Then we realize—they’re not. We feel like a failure. Where did we go wrong? If we ARE teaching our kids those things, we’re not failures. We have to remember that we’re raising little sinners who need Jesus. We can’t expect them to be perfect little angels. Without Christ, they can’t be. What’s important is how we try to correct this. Don’t lose your cool and sin yourself. Sternly tell them WHY it’s wrong to cheat. It’s stealing. And it’s sin. I love what Proverbs says, “the integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin” (MSG).
Who is Jesus REALLY?
Sunday is Palm Sunday—what a powerful moment in history. Jesus rides into Jerusalem, and the crowd shouts, “Hosanna!” But just days later, they shout, “Crucify Him.” It’s a great time to ask our kids—Who do you say Jesus is? Is He just a good teacher or the King of Kings and Lord of lords? Talk about it as a family. Read the passion story together in the Bible. Help them understand that Jesus didn’t come just to be popular—He came to save by dying on the cross and rising again. Let’s raise kids who don’t just cheer for Jesus one day and walk away the next. Let’s help them follow Him every day, even when people are teasing or rejecting them.