"Lot moved his tents to a place near Sodom." Genesis 13:12
No maps. No GPS. Few street signs. Those are three important reasons why some people don’t drive in developing countries. We’d get lost. Raising our kids to follow Jesus is a lot like trying to navigate in an under-developed country — there is no parenting map, no spiritual GPS. We head in the direction that seems best, trying to find our way by trial and error.
But we don’t need to feel lost. As we journey through each stage of our children’s development, we can point them toward spiritual markers that will help them find true faith — becoming vibrant followers of Christ.
God didn’t bring the people of Israel out from slavery in Egypt by the Exodus just to have a one-generation witness to His glory and sovereign purposes. No, God wants an enduring, multi-generational witness.
Jesus said: 'If anyone causes one of these little ones - those who believe in me - to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea' (Matthew 18:6). Implicit in those words is a sobering challenge to every parent (and every person who is a role model for children): your moral authority doesn't come from your knowledge but from your lifestyle and integrity. As your children grow up, they're less apt to listen to what you say and more inclined to imitate what you do.
Abraham and Lot shared the same family, faith, and opportunities in life. But when it came to raising children, Abraham grew roses and Lot grew weeds. What made the difference? Abraham followed God while Lot followed his own selfish interests. 'Lot moved his tents to a place near Sodom' (Genesis 13:12). Before it was over, Lot lost his moral authority with his family. So here is the question: as a parent (or a role model), where are you pitching your tent? King David also lost his moral authority with his family Even though God forgave his affair with Bathsheba and permitted him to remain on the throne, his sin took a terrible toll: one son raped his sister, the other stole the throne, and his son Solomon's wives ultimately led him into idolatry. Nathan the prophet told him, 'Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you' (2 Samuel 12:11).
God is the best parent, so follow him and take your children with you.
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