It is easy to rationalize sinful thoughts and behaviors when they serve our selfish purposes. Considering the standards of our culture, small compromises may seem insignificant in comparison. As Christian parents, we will be challenged over and over again not to “exchange the truth for a lie.” This may mean saying “no” to our kids regarding certain movies, games, and clothing that our society finds acceptable.
Godly standards may be tough for your child to accept, especially when they long to be “cool” and accepted by their peers. Take time to listen to your children’s thoughts about the pressure to conform that they feel. Ask questions about what’s going on in their world and please don’t dismiss their feelings when they express them. Instead of delivering a lecture, acknowledge their disappointment when you have to say “no” to something that conflicts with God’s standards. It will be easier for your kids to accept your authority when they feel genuinely heard.
Uphold the standards of godly behavior with kindness and love.
They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served something created instead of the Creator, who is praised forever. Amen. (Romans 1:25 HCSB)