Paul's Ponderings: 2025

Friday, January 17, 2025

How do I Know if My Pastor is Teaching the Truth?

In a world filled with diverse voices claiming to represent God's Word, discerning truth from error is essential for every believer. Scripture exhorts us to be like the Bereans, who "examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true" (Acts 17:11). But how can you apply this principle practically? Here are three key ways to test the teaching you receive:

1. Compare the Teaching with Scripture

The Bible is our ultimate standard of truth. Isaiah 8:20 reminds us, “Go to God’s instruction and testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there will be no dawn for them” (CSB). A faithful pastor’s message should align with the clear teachings of Scripture. Ask yourself:

Is the passage being interpreted in its proper context? Look at the verses before and after to ensure the message isn’t being twisted to fit an agenda.
Does this teaching align with the whole counsel of God’s Word? Scripture interprets Scripture, and any teaching that contradicts other parts of the Bible is a red flag.
Is the teaching based on one passage of Scripture or does it jump around the Bible? The historical, cultural, and narrative context of a passage take time to unpack, but are crucial to understanding and applying the text to our modern times.

Since it is difficult to both listen to the teaching and read passages in context, it is good idea to read the passages for yourself after the sermon. You may even consider keeping a notebook to jot down key points and questions to study further.

2. Examine the Fruits of the Teaching

Jesus said, “You’ll recognize them by their fruit.” (Matthew 7:16a; CSB). Truthful teaching produces spiritual growth, godly character, and a deeper love for God and others. Here are some signs of good fruit:

Does the teaching exalt Christ? Sound doctrine always points to Jesus, not the preacher’s charisma, personal opinions, or self-help philosophies.
Does it lead to repentance and transformation? True biblical teaching challenges sin and encourages obedience to God’s commands.
Does it promote unity and love in the body of Christ? If the teaching causes division or fosters pride, it may not be rooted in truth.

Also, beware of messages that emphasize your potential, avoid the reality and consequences of sin, or prioritize worldly success over spiritual maturity.

3. Pray for Discernment and Listen to the Holy Spirit

Discernment is a gift from God, and the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding us into all truth (John 16:13). Before, during, and after a sermon, pray for clarity and wisdom. Ask the Lord to reveal anything that is out of line with His Word.

Do you sense the Spirit’s affirmation or caution? Sometimes, you may feel unsettled or unsure about a message. Take those feelings to God in prayer and compare the teaching with Scripture.
Seek wise counsel from mature believers. If you have concerns, discuss them with trusted Christians who are grounded in the Word.
Use a good Study Bible or One Volume Commentary. There are many good study resources available to us, and some of the most accessible ones are the study notes found in Study Bibles.*

Remember, while no pastor is perfect, a faithful shepherd humbly welcomes questions and strives to teach God’s Word accurately.

Final Thoughts

Testing your pastor’s teaching is not about being critical or suspicious but about being a responsible disciple. Paul urged Timothy to "correctly teach the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15), and we should expect the same diligence from our spiritual leaders. By comparing teachings with Scripture, examining their fruit, and praying for discernment, you can grow in confidence that you are being nourished with sound doctrine.

Let’s be Bereans together, faithfully testing all things and holding fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Remember, God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105)—and with it, we will not be led astray.

What steps have you taken to discern the truth in teaching? Share your thoughts in the comments!

* I have found these Study Bibles useful: NLT Study Bible, NLT Life Application Study Bible, ESV Study Bible, CSB Study Bible, NIV Study Bible, and NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study BIble.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Questions God Asks: Where Are You?

On March 28, 2007, Misty Ann Weaver, a vocational nurse, started a fire in a mid-rise office building in an attempt to delay an audit for her employer, Dr. Robert Capriotti, a cosmetic surgeon. They had fallen behind in getting all the needed documents together, and Misty hoped the fire would buy them time. Instead of buying them time, her actions led to tragic consequences. The fire spiraled out of control, and three people died of smoke inhalation. Misty thought she had plan to cover up the fact that she had fallen behind in completing her assignment, but her plan led to the deaths of three people. On October 2008, she pleaded guilty to three counts of felony murder and one count of first-degree arson. She was sentenced to 25 years in prison.

Misty’s story is extreme, but it illustrates a universal truth: our tendency to cover up our mistakes rather than confront them. We all have moments when we try to hide our shortcomings, hoping no one notices. But these actions often have consequences—maybe not as tragic as Misty's, but damaging nonetheless. The question we must ask ourselves is: How have you tried to cover things up in your life?

This isn’t just a rhetorical question; it’s an invitation to reflect. Questions like this help us connect our lives to a deeper truth. We often think of questions as tools to gain information, but they serve many other purposes too: to show interest, to stimulate creativity, to engage others, and to make people think deeply. In Scripture, God uses questions in a similar way—not because He needs information, but because He wants us to pause, reflect, and become mindful of our relationship with Him.

God’s Questions: An Invitation to Reflection

Throughout the Bible, God asks questions—not because He lacks knowledge, but because He wants His people to become aware of their own hearts and their relationship with Him. This is especially clear in Genesis 3:1-13, where God asks Adam and Eve, “Where are you?” after they eat from the forbidden tree. It’s crucial to remember that these texts were written long ago for an ancient culture, specifically the Israelites, who were surrounded by idolatry. These stories reveal the character of God, not to answer all our modern questions but to show the radical nature of His relationship with His people.

In Genesis 3, we witness a fascinating contrast: the humans are described as “naked” (innocent) in Genesis 2:25, while the serpent is described as “shrewd” or cunning. The serpent (whether Satan himself or influenced by him) challenges God’s command, and the woman, in response, adds to it by saying they must not even touch the fruit. This act of adding to God’s word opens the door for further temptation.

The woman’s desire for the fruit and the man’s silence speak to a truth we all face today—our desires and intentions matter. The man’s failure to intervene could suggest he was tempted as well, perhaps using the woman as a test case. Regardless, their eyes were opened, and they realized they were naked. In that moment, they lost their innocence, and the knowledge they gained was too much for them to handle. They tried to cover their shame with leaves, an act that mirrors how we often attempt to hide our own failures.

“Where Are You?”: God’s Call to Vulnerability

When God shows up, Adam and Eve hide, ashamed of what they’ve done. God’s question, “Where are you?” isn’t about finding their physical location; it’s a call to reflect on their spiritual state. God knew where they were physically, but He wanted them to realize their own separation from Him and the opportunity to restore that broken relationship. God then asks, “Who told you that you were naked?” Again, God isn’t seeking information; He wants Adam and Eve to come to terms with their choices and their consequences.

This moment in Genesis stands out compared to other ancient myths of its time because it highlights the possibility of restoration and relationship with God. It wasn’t about condemnation alone; it was about God’s willingness to bring healing. God’s question, “Where are you?” echoes through the ages. He asks us today, “Where are you in your relationship with Me?” Are you hiding, afraid of what God might say or do? Are you covering up your mistakes, pretending everything is okay? Are you blaming others, or are you willing to confess and seek forgiveness?

The Call to Confession

1 John 1:5-10 reminds us that instead of hiding, we need to confess. Instead of blaming, we need to own our sins. Instead of covering up, we need to seek God’s forgiveness. Confession shows that we are mindful and intentional about our relationship with God. It’s not about condemnation but about restoration. God’s invitation is to step out of hiding and move into a place of healing.

Bottom Line: God’s Desire for Relationship

The bottom line is this: God desires a relationship with each of us, regardless of our past or our sins. No mistake is too great to separate us from His love. But we need to be willing to come out of hiding, to confess, and to start the process of reconciliation. It’s the starting point for a renewed relationship with Him.

A Challenge

This week, take time to reflect and confess the obstacles in your relationship with God. These obstacles could be sin, but they might also be doubt, fear, or worry. Don’t take your relationship with God for granted; be intentional about strengthening it. Seek God with honesty, and in doing so, you’ll find that God is already there, ready to meet you.

God’s question isn’t one of condemnation but one of invitation: “Where are you?” How will you respond?

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Parenting in a Digital World: Shaping Healthy Digital Habits

In our second post of Parenting in a Digital World, we will focus on shaping healthy digital habits for our families. Building on the foundational principles of protection, guidance, and empowerment discussed in the first post, this post seeks to provide actionable strategies to create a balanced digital culture at home.

Recap of Post 1

Parenting in the digital age revolves around understanding our “why.” Why do we strive for intentionality with technology? The answer is simple yet profound: because our children and their development matter. Technology presents challenges like digital addiction, peer pressure, and parental inconsistency, but remembering our purpose helps us stay focused. As parents, we aim to protect, guide, and empower our kids to navigate the digital world productively and responsibly.

Building Your Family’s Digital Culture

Creating a family digital culture starts with identifying your shared values around technology use. This requires thoughtful, informed conversations that involve both parents and, where appropriate, older children.

Key Considerations:

Aligning Technology with Priorities: How does technology fit into family goals like fostering relationships, education, physical activity, and spirituality?
Consistency in Modeling Values: For example, if we value education, we must model lifelong learning, just as we would physical activity or faith formation.
Practical Rules to Support Values: Examples include screen-free zones (e.g., dinner table, bedrooms), limits on screen time during family activities, and spending caps on gadgets and apps.

It’s essential for parents to engage in deeper discussions and reach a consensus before setting rules. To support this, consider arranging childcare or quiet times to allow for focused conversations.

Managing Screen Time

Understanding Screen Time:

From school to entertainment, screen time includes all interactions with digital devices. Studies show that children today are digital natives, with U.S. averages indicating:

8-12 years old: 4-6 hours per day
Teenagers: Up to 9 hours per day
Adults: Around 7 hours per day

Not all screen time is equal—educational uses can be beneficial, while excessive entertainment use can lead to missed opportunities in sleep, physical activity, and reading.

What’s Being Missed?

While we can focus on the negative consequences of being on screens, we also have to think about what screen time is replacing.

Sleep: Screen time disrupts both quality and quantity of rest, impacting emotional and mental health.
In Person Relationships: More and more teenagers are opting not to physically hang out with friends, but to connect through texting and social media.
Physical Activity: A staggering 85% of girls and 78% of boys fail to meet daily exercise recommendations.
Reading: Leisure reading is declining, which hinders comprehension, critical thinking, and spiritual engagement.

Setting Limits:

David Tucker, in The Digital Parenting Guidebook, emphasizes awareness as the foundation for setting appropriate boundaries. Here are age-based recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

Under 2 years: Zero screen time, except video chatting.
2-5 years: No more than one hour/day with co-viewing.
5-17 years: Generally no more than two hours/day outside of homework.

Helping children develop a healthy relationship with technology starts with intentionality. Here are three key strategies for parents:

Create the Family’s Digital Culture:
Establish a clear framework for how your family interacts with technology. This includes setting up device-free zones (e.g., the dinner table, bedrooms), establishing age-appropriate time limits, and identifying acceptable apps. These boundaries provide structure while aligning with your family’s values.
Leverage Software for Time Limits:
Utilize built-in parental controls and third-party software to set and enforce screen time limits. While these tools are helpful, they aren’t foolproof and can often be bypassed. Parents must remain vigilant and actively monitor their child’s screen use to ensure limits are respected.
Teach the Value of Time Management:
Children often feel like they have unlimited time, making it essential for parents to guide them in understanding its value. Help your children learn to balance their time by prioritizing work, play, exercise, and relationships. Emphasizing time management also prepares them for moments when they must resist the “screen time itch” and focus on other priorities.

By combining structure, tools, and lessons on time management, parents can equip their children to navigate the digital world thoughtfully and independently.

Final Takeaways

Parenting in a digital world requires intentionality, informed discussions, and consistent modeling. As we continue to navigate this journey, let’s remain focused on our goals: creating a digital environment that supports healthy development and reflects our family’s core values.

Let’s continue this conversation—what steps have you taken to foster healthy digital habits in your home? Share your thoughts below!

Monday, January 13, 2025

Lessons from the King: The Call of the Kingdom

Imagine for a moment what it takes to become a citizen of the United States. The process is rigorous—time, effort, and commitment are required. First, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. Then comes the application process, a declaration of intent, and a thorough examination. This is followed by an interview and a test, where your knowledge of the nation’s history, laws, and values is assessed. Finally, there’s the oath of allegiance—a solemn moment when you pledge loyalty to a new identity, a new home, and a new purpose. Becoming a citizen means leaving behind old allegiances and embracing a new life.

This imagery of citizenship sets the stage for the message of the Kingdom of Heaven. Over the next twelve weeks, as part of the sermon series Lessons from the King, we will explore the Sermon on the Mount—Jesus’s teaching on what it means to be citizens of God’s Kingdom. A core truth runs through it all: We cannot be citizens of God’s Kingdom without faithfulness to the King.

Before diving into the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew’s Gospel introduces us to the beginning of Jesus’s ministry. This foundation reveals the nature of His call: the call to be citizens of God’s Kingdom. It is personal, transforming, and radical.

The Context of the Call (Matthew 4:12-17)

Jesus began His ministry with purpose and perfect timing.

1. The Timing of the Call

After His baptism and wilderness testing, Jesus waited to start His ministry. He began only after John the Baptist was arrested. John’s message of repentance had prepared the people, and Jesus built upon it, signaling a transition from preparation to fulfillment.

2. The Location of the Call

Jesus moved from Nazareth to Capernaum, a bustling city in Galilee, a region marked by Gentile influence. This move wasn’t random—it fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy that light would come to Galilee (Isaiah 9:1-2). Here, the Messiah would shine, bringing hope to those in darkness.

3. The Message of the Call

Jesus’s message mirrored John’s: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Repentance is a turning point—a call to align with God’s will. The Kingdom of Heaven represents God’s reign, where His purposes are fulfilled. To enter this Kingdom requires leaving behind rebellion and embracing faithfulness to God.

The Nature of the Call (Matthew 4:18-22)

What does repentance look like? Jesus’s call to the first disciples reveals the answer.

1. A Personal and Specific Call

Jesus’s invitation was tailored to individuals. For Peter, Andrew, James, and John, the call meant leaving their nets behind to become fishers of people. For others, like Matthew the tax collector or Simon the Zealot, the call required forsaking old allegiances to serve a new mission. Each call was unique, but the response was the same: immediate and wholehearted.

2. A Transformative Purpose

Jesus’s call transformed the disciples’ purpose. They left their identities as fishermen to take on a new mission—proclaiming the Kingdom. Similarly, following Jesus transforms our priorities and redefines how we live, even if it doesn’t change our occupation.

3. A Radical Commitment

The disciples’ response was marked by sacrifice. Peter and Andrew left their livelihood; James and John left their father. Following Jesus often requires letting go of something significant—whether relationships, possessions, or personal ambitions. The call to the Kingdom demands a total reorientation of life.

The Urgency of the Call

The Kingdom of Heaven is not a distant promise—it is near, breaking into the present. Jesus’s invitation demands an immediate response. The disciples recognized this urgency and followed Him without delay.

But what happens if we hesitate? The cost of delay is profound. Like the Rich Young Ruler, we risk walking away from Jesus with regret, missing the transformative life He offers. Wisdom calls us to act when the invitation is clear—to trust in Jesus and leave behind whatever holds us back.

Responding to the Call

Becoming a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven is unlike any earthly citizenship process. It begins with Jesus’s call: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” While earthly citizenship requires our effort, Kingdom citizenship is initiated by God’s grace. It invites us to pledge allegiance to Jesus, leaving behind old ways and embracing a life aligned with His will.

To be a Christian is not simply to add Jesus to our lives. It is to adopt a new agenda—to live for God’s Kingdom and surrender our plans to His purposes.

Challenge and Invitation

As we begin this journey through the Sermon on the Mount, I challenge you to read Matthew 5-7. Ask God for wisdom, not just to understand His teachings but to apply them in ways that transform your life and bring His Kingdom to the world.

When Jesus calls, He asks for everything—but He offers so much more in return. Are you ready to follow King Jesus today?

Friday, January 10, 2025

Pursuing Perfection: A Call to Live as God Intends

“On the other hand, you must realize from the outset that the goal toward which He is beginning to guide you is absolute perfection; and no power in the whole universe, except you yourself, can prevent Him from taking you to that goal.” – C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

How we live matters deeply to God. If our actions were insignificant, then Jesus would not have needed to die for our sins. Our words and deeds profoundly impact our relationship with God and our witness to others.

Yet, there’s a troubling misconception floating around: that as Christians, how we live doesn’t really matter because we’re bound to sin anyway. Some believe that faith alone is what counts, not behavior. However, this line of thinking misses a crucial truth: genuine faith shapes how we act. If we’re unwilling to confront sin in our lives, it’s a clear sign that our faith isn’t as strong as it should be.

The Biblical idea of perfection is about maturity and completion. To be perfect is reach the goal and be completely mature. This means life is about a progress towards maturity in Christ Jesus.

God doesn’t demand immediate perfection from us. Perfection is the ultimate goal He is leading us toward. What He does require, though, is that we actively work to make the necessary changes in our lives. Through these changes, we grow closer to becoming the people He wants us to be.

Paul reminds us in Ephesians 4:17 (NLT): “With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused.” Similarly, he warns in Ephesians 5:3-5 (NLT):

“Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God.”

When we choose to follow Christ, there must be a visible transformation in our lives. As Peter writes in 1 Peter 4:4 (NLT): “Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do. So they slander you.”

This transformation says something profound about our commitment. If we refuse to adjust our vocabulary, the way we party, the jokes we tell, or the entertainment we consume, what does that reveal about our dedication? It’s tempting to justify our behavior by pointing to God’s grace and forgiveness, but grace is not a free pass to continue sinning. Grace is a safety net, not a license to be complacent. It ensures we don’t lose our salvation for every mistake, but it doesn’t excuse laziness in pursuing holiness.

God’s ultimate desire is to make us holy, as He is holy. Holiness is what biblical perfection looks like. The challenge is that God won’t accomplish this without our consent and cooperation. We must actively participate in the process by striving to change our lives and fighting against the sin that seeks to enslave us. This ongoing battle against sin is the path through which God molds us into His image.

Let’s embrace this journey, knowing that perfection is not just an unattainable ideal but a promise—one that He will faithfully bring to completion as we trust and obey Him. May our lives reflect our faith, drawing us closer to Him and serving as a testimony to those around us.

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Be Wise

Robert Fulghum once wrote in the Kansas City Times, "Most of what I really need to know about how to live, and what to do, and how to be, I learned in kindergarten." He went on to list simple yet profound lessons: share everything, play fair, say you’re sorry, and stick together. These lessons illustrate an important truth: wisdom isn’t about having vast knowledge or advanced degrees. Wisdom is about how we live, how we treat others, and how we respond to life. Even young children can display wisdom in their actions.

God desires that His people live with wisdom. Wisdom is more than a collection of rules; it’s godly knowledge applied to living well in God’s world. The Old Testament Law wasn’t merely a set of do’s and don’ts—it was a source of wisdom meant to guide Israel in representing God well. Similarly, the book of Proverbs offers timeless wisdom through short, memorable sayings. These proverbs were given to help God’s people navigate life in a way that glorifies Him and blesses others. They remain relevant to us today because living with wisdom transforms not only our lives but also the lives of those around us.

Proverbs 4:5-9 highlights three essential attitudes for living with wisdom: desiring wisdom, prioritizing wisdom, and valuing wisdom.

I. Desire Wisdom (Proverbs 4:5-6)

The first step toward living wisely is to desire wisdom. To desire wisdom is to recognize its benefits and long for the blessings it brings to life. We often fail to desire wisdom because we mistakenly believe it’s too hard to obtain—that it’s reserved for intellectuals or scholars. However, God offers wisdom freely through His Word, His people, and prayer.

The father in Proverbs encourages his son to pursue wisdom persistently, reminding us that this is a lifelong process. Wisdom is not something we stumble upon accidentally; it requires intentional effort and discipline. Proverbs 4:5 commands us to “get wisdom” and “get understanding,” emphasizing the need for deliberate action. This pursuit often involves spiritual disciplines such as studying the Bible, meditating on God’s truth, and seeking counsel from wise believers.

In verse 6, wisdom is personified as something to cherish and guard, like a close friend. When we value wisdom in this way, we experience its blessings and protection. The journey to wisdom begins with a heartfelt desire to receive it.

II. Prioritize Wisdom (Proverbs 4:7)

The second attitude we must cultivate is prioritizing wisdom. Desiring wisdom is not enough if we don’t make it a priority in our lives. To prioritize wisdom means to declare it as valuable and worth pursuing above all else.

Proverbs 4:7 tells us, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” This underscores the absolute necessity of wisdom in our lives. When we prioritize wisdom, we position ourselves to live the life God created us to live. This doesn’t guarantee a life free of challenges, but it ensures that we can faithfully represent God in all we say and do, trusting Him to provide for our needs.

Unfortunately, we often devalue wisdom, treating it as an afterthought. We settle for salvation and then muddle through life without asking God for the wisdom He has for us. Yet, God’s wisdom empowers us to bear His image more fully and live as His representatives in this world.

III. Value Wisdom (Proverbs 4:8-9)

The final attitude we need is to value wisdom. To value wisdom is to recognize its worth and understand that it’s worth sacrificing for. Olympic athletes train for years to compete for a medal—we should have a similar dedication when it comes to pursuing wisdom.

In Proverbs 4:8-9, the father tells his son that wisdom will exalt and honor those who embrace it. When we live with wisdom, we become a blessing to others—not just through our words but through our actions and how we treat people. This kind of life brings recognition and honor, not in a prideful sense but as a testimony to the transformative power of wisdom. The benefits of living with wisdom extend from this life into eternity.

Today, we live in an age where information is readily available. A quick Google search or YouTube video can answer almost any question. But true wisdom doesn’t come from the internet—it comes from God, the one who created us and knows how life is meant to be lived.

Conclusion

God calls His people to live with wisdom. This wisdom is seen in how we treat others and respond to life’s challenges. It is godly knowledge applied to living well in God’s world. To live with wisdom, we must desire it, prioritize it, and value it.

Living with wisdom glorifies God and blesses others. It helps us navigate life with understanding and grace, often making our lives easier and more fulfilling. More importantly, it allows us to be a blessing to our friends and family by treating them well and sharing truth with them. In doing so, we reflect God’s glory in our words and actions.

Challenge

Read through the book of Proverbs, taking time to memorize a few key verses.
Reevaluate your priorities to ensure wisdom takes first place in your life.
Reflect on the benefits of wisdom and commit to living in a way that allows others to see its fruit in your life.

Final Thought

Wisdom is not just about knowledge—it’s about living well in God’s world. Make the choice to BE WISE today.

Monday, January 6, 2025

Parenting in a Digital World: Foundations of Parenting in a Digital World

Parenting in a digital age is no easy task. As a parent and pastor, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply digital technology impacts our families. This blog post, based on insights from The Digital Parenting Guidebook and a recent session I facilitated, aims to provide foundational principles for parenting in a connected world. Let’s explore the challenges and opportunities of digital parenting and how we can approach this journey with intention, grace, and adaptability.

Welcome to the Digital Age

Digital technology is woven into the fabric of our daily lives—it’s not going away. As parents, we’re tasked with equipping our children to navigate this world responsibly. But before diving in, ask yourself:

What are your biggest concerns about parenting in a digital world?
What tools and principles do you need to address these challenges?

David Tucker wisely reminds us that “digital parenting is a type of discipleship.” It requires us to both teach and model the behaviors we want our children to adopt. This is hard, counter-cultural work. Your children will test boundaries, and society may push back on your efforts. But with commitment and consistency, you can guide your family through this complex terrain.

Guiding Principles for Digital Parenting

At its core, parenting in a digital world boils down to three key roles: protecting, guiding, and empowering our children.

1. Protection

The internet opens our children to harmful content, interactions, and addictive tendencies. Establishing boundaries—like screen time limits and content filters—is essential to protect them.

2. Guidance

Parenting isn’t just about rules; it’s about relationships. Guide your children by:

Modeling healthy digital habits: Demonstrate balanced tech usage. Put down your phone during family time and prioritize face-to-face interactions.
Having open conversations: Talk with your kids about their online activities, friends, and feelings.
Building trust: Create an environment where they feel safe coming to you with mistakes or concerns.

3. Empowerment

We can’t shield our children from technology forever, nor should we. Empower them by teaching responsible tech usage and providing age-appropriate freedoms. Encourage them to use technology creatively and productively—whether through coding, digital art, or research for their interests.

Know Your “Why”

Every family needs a clear purpose behind their digital parenting. Here are mine:

Foster Creativity and Productivity
Boredom often breeds creativity. Encourage your children to play, build, draw, and explore outside the screen.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Unrestricted tech use can lead to addiction, especially for young, developing brains. Guide your children in establishing limits for social media, video games, and other digital activities.
Prepare for Future Tech
Technology evolves rapidly—AI, robotics, and embedded devices are just around the corner. Lay a solid foundation now so your children can adapt as they grow.

Obstacles to Overcome

Parenting in the digital world comes with unique challenges:

Screen Addiction: Devices are designed to be addictive—for us and our kids. Break the cycle by modeling balance.
Parental Inconsistency: Ensure you and your co-parent are aligned on boundaries and rules. Consistency is key.
Peer Influence: Other families may not share your values, exposing your children to unregulated tech. Use these moments to reinforce your family’s principles.
Overwhelm: The pace of digital change can feel daunting. Stay informed but give yourself grace—it’s impossible to know everything.

Simple Steps to Start Today

If digital parenting feels overwhelming, take these immediate actions:

Set Boundaries
Discuss and establish age-appropriate tech limits with your spouse or co-parent.
Initiate Conversations
Ask your children about their online activities, friends, and feelings. For older kids, involve them in boundary-setting to foster a sense of ownership.
Educate Yourself
Learn about the platforms and apps your children use. Staying informed will help you make better decisions.
Model Good Habits
Your behavior is your children’s biggest influence. Make tech-free family time a priority, and show them how to balance digital and real-world interactions.

A Final Word

As parents, we are uniquely positioned to guide our children through the complexities of the digital world. And remember: if God has called you to this task, He will provide the wisdom and resources you need. Lean on Him, and don’t be afraid to ask for help—from mentors, fellow parents, or trusted resources.

What’s your biggest challenge or success story when it comes to digital parenting? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear from you.

Thursday, January 2, 2025

Grow in Wisdom

Life has a funny way of showing us how little control we actually have. Even the best-laid plans are no match for life’s unpredictability. Mark Batterson captures this truth perfectly in his book In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day with the story of a malfunctioning car horn.

One morning, while stopped at a red light, Batterson tapped his horn to signal the car ahead. But what began as a polite gesture quickly turned into chaos when the horn jammed and wouldn’t stop honking. After pulling into a gas station, mortified but relieved, the family thought the problem was solved—only for the horn to start blaring again on the highway at 70 mph.

Batterson describes the confusion of other drivers and the sheer panic in the car as he pounded on the horn to silence it. What should have been a simple, peaceful drive turned into 15 minutes of chaos, frustration, and embarrassment. Yet, looking back, it became the highlight of their trip—unplanned, unforgettable, and filled with unexpected joy.

This story reminds us that life often doesn’t go according to plan. Despite our best efforts to create order and control, the unpredictable always finds a way to surprise us. In those moments, we’re forced to ask: How do I respond when life doesn’t go as expected?

The answer lies in wisdom. Wisdom helps us navigate life’s uncertainties skillfully and faithfully, relying on God rather than ourselves. But what is wisdom? And how do we grow in it?

Defining Wisdom and Proverbs

Wisdom is more than knowledge; it is godly insight that enables us to live well in God’s world. It involves applying truth to life in a way that honors God and benefits others. Wisdom recognizes the limitations of our understanding and trusts God’s infinite perspective instead.

The book of Proverbs serves as a guide to gaining wisdom. But what is a proverb? A proverb is a short, memorable saying that conveys general truth, practical advice, or a moral lesson. Proverbs distill life’s complexities into nuggets of truth, making them easy to remember and apply.

For example:

“Actions speak louder than words” reminds us that deeds carry more weight than promises.
“A stitch in time saves nine” encourages addressing problems early to avoid bigger issues later.

The proverbs in Scripture are unique because they are inspired by God and rooted in His character. They provide wisdom for living in a way that aligns with His will and brings glory to His name.

Wisdom: God’s Design for Living

God desires that His people live with wisdom. From the beginning, God’s law and His Word were designed to guide His people—not merely as rules to follow but as wisdom to meditate on. The book of Proverbs encapsulates this divine guidance, offering timeless truths for every season of life.

Proverbs 9:11-12 highlights the benefits of wisdom: a longer, fuller life marked by healthier relationships and sound decisions. Wisdom protects us from unnecessary risks and destructive choices, enriching our lives in ways we can’t always measure.

If wisdom is so valuable, how do we grow in it? Proverbs 3:5-7 gives us three steps: lean on God, learn His will, and leave sin behind.

Step 1: Lean on God (Proverbs 3:5)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding.”

Trusting God begins with humility—acknowledging that our perspective is limited while God’s is infinite. Just as we wouldn’t lean on a weak crutch, we must not rely on our flawed understanding. Instead, we lean on God, trusting Him for wisdom, truth, and guidance.

Peter reinforces this in 1 Peter 5:6-7: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God...casting all your cares on Him, because He cares for you.” Trust requires surrender, believing that God cares for us and will provide what we need.

Step 2: Learn God’s Will (Proverbs 3:6)

“In all your ways know Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Part of humility is realizing that our way is not always the best way. Paul emphasizes this in Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.”

Renewing our minds means seeing the world from God’s perspective—understanding His definition of good and evil and committing to live accordingly. This requires immersing ourselves in Scripture and allowing God’s truth to shape our thoughts, decisions, and actions.

Step 3: Leave Sin Behind (Proverbs 3:7)

“Don’t be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil.”

Wisdom demands that we leave sin behind. Sin blinds us to God’s will and damages our relationship with Him. Paul’s words in Colossians 3:5 are clear: “Put to death what belongs to your earthly nature.”

Sin often stems from pride—trusting our wisdom instead of God’s. But to live wisely, we must fear the Lord, submit to His authority, and reject what He calls evil. This requires a daily commitment to pursue holiness and align our lives with His will.

The Call to Trust God

To live with wisdom, we must trust God more than ourselves. This means leaning on Him, learning His will, and leaving sin behind. Wisdom doesn’t come by accident; it requires intentionality and effort.

Thankfully, God promises to provide wisdom to those who seek it. James 1:5 encourages us: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.”

Final Thought

The very first sin in the Garden of Eden was humanity’s choice to rely on their own wisdom instead of trusting God. That choice led to brokenness. Yet through Christ, we are invited to return to God’s wisdom, trusting Him fully and following His ways.

Let’s commit to cultivating hearts ready to grow in wisdom. Together, we can embrace the life God intended—leaning on Him, learning His will, and leaving sin behind.