Teach your child the importance of standing up for what is right. Our children gravitate towards whatever pleases the important people in their lives, right or wrong out of their need for acceptance. If their peers are doing it, peer approval will be a powerful influence on them. It’s not always about good kids versus bad, or about morality versus immorality, it’s about being kids!
Solomon, recalling his own youthful tendencies, counseled, ‘My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them. If they say, “Come along with us” do not go along with them’ (Proverbs 1:10-15 NIV).
We become like the company we keep, and if our kids are to stand for God against destructive influences they need instruction in several areas.
First, the qualities of true friendship. Teach them that true friends seek each other’s best interests, and whoever leads them into danger or sin is not a friend.
Second, the inevitable law of consequences. ‘A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit will reap eternal life’ (Galatians 6:7-8 NIV). And reinforce your teaching by refusing to rescue them from their consequences.
Finally, the right kind of heroes. Instead of rock stars or sports celebrities of questionable character, introduce your children to Bible heroes who modeled godliness, righteousness and courage under pressure!
