My Kids

Lent Day 25: Today I battle for my kids

“I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your Word, which is truth.” – John 17: 15-17

Jesus, I have the most bizarre conversations with my teenager. He always seems to want to push the limits. You heard us yesterday – I’ve told him no TV-MA shows allowed. Then last night he tells me about the 3 TV-MA series that he’s already completed and that he skips the “bad parts” and it’s just rated that for language and violence. So I tell him again, I don’t want him watching those because they can sneak lies in against what you know is good and true. They can create desires within you that are not healthy for you at this stage of life (or any stage)…and on and on 🙂

Jesus, what do you think of all these cultural influences? This TV thing is just one thing. My parents’ aim was to keep me close to you, and they gave me a lot of freedom to make my own choices. I trust in you to guide us and them. You love them more than we do. I ask you for wisdom of what battles to fight and what to surrender.

Father God, may my kids believe they belong to you. May they walk with the wise and become wise. May they love what you love, and hate what you hate. Protect my kids from choices that lead to a path of destruction. If they find themselves on that path, may they be quick to turn to you, because I know you’ll be there.

Jesus, may they find friends who sharpen them, who challenge them and stimulate their thoughts. May they find friends who love you, Lord, and who find joy in following you. Lead them to life-giving relationships.

Father God, may we be patient with them just as you are with us. Thank you for your patience, Lord, and your gentleness with me. May I also be gentle with them. Fill in the gaps, we need your help. This is quite the journey! Thank you, I love you. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.