So, as a parent of a 15 and 11 year old, protecting them from this bad bad world is an understandable position to take. But, if we over shelter as opposed to educate and equip, how can they ever Influence the world? The world for this discussion, is things that are really opposite of righteous lively and lively that can easily lead to harm. Ex. Drinking excessively and driving can lead to a car accident in which a life is taken. Ex. Not feeling that being honest and genuine with others should guide all actions could lead to broken damaged relationships and/or false expectations.
We not only need to teach our children values and morals but we need to teach them how to stand by those values, how to live out those values and how to share those values with others; Influence. When did the world become the owner of influence? It is not enough for our children or for us to just shake our heads at the world in pity and then move about. It is not enough to tell our children, don’t do this and don’t do that. We have to be honest, in an apprproiate manner and at the appropriate age with our children, about the opposite views in this world. Not everyone is a believer in Jesus Christ as their redeemer. Not everyone was born into a family that loved them unconditionally and cared about their well being. Not everyone is looking at life through the same set of lenses.
As Christians, Influence is a part of our job. What would happen if every believer woke up each and everyday with a focus on Influence? Influence is not always a bible verse, some people are not ready for that. Influence is not always pointing out the wrong in others, the world is great at putting people down. Influence is a kind deed, handling tense situations with peace, showing patience, not judging, treating all people with the same level of respect, being honest and a whole lot more. We need to stop feeling beat up by this world and take our message out just like the world does. I applaude the Christian Artists, Singers, Writers, Television Producers for taking the position of “we are going to share our story too”. We need not shy away from the technologies of today due to abuse of them by the world. Get on Twitter and Facebook and share your thoughts too. Once you know the rules of the game; lack of action and engagement are keys to success whether you have all the skills or just some of them.
The Truth is:
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. Matthew 5:13
Nice topic – respect !