Parenting by Design - April 23

As Christians, we are called to hold onto hope that lies beyond the present world's demands, but how can we maintain this focus in a culture that thrives on instant gratification? By understanding the power of the Holy Spirit and its role in guiding us towards an eternal perspective, we can shield our minds from the distractions of the world and stay fixed on the unseen hope that has saved us.

Hope in the Unseen

Rom 8:24-25: "For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it" (NASU).

As Christians, we know how the story is going to end. Yet, the hope into which we have been saved is still unseen. What is seen is the world and its demands. If we don't keep our minds focused on the unseen, we will find ourselves swallowed up by the pressure to live for today's culture. It is all around and it doesn't have any trouble making itself seen. The ever present media (TV, magazines, newspapers, internet) distracts us from the unseen towards the alluring false hope of instant gratification. Fortunately, God has provided the defense: "the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you" (Rom 8:11).

Demonstrate an eternal perspective for your kids. Talk about the messages our culture is sending and contrast them with the hope we have as followers of Christ.

Parenting by Design - April 23

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