Our Values

In our family we have certain values that are important to us. These are standards we have formed our life around, and things we are teaching our children. We hope that our children grow up valuing these same ideals and pass them on to their children. We value God and our faith, responsible and ethical behavior, and education. Obviously, there are many other things and concepts that we value, but I believe these are the most important to us. We try to surround ourselves with people who value these same things. But anytime you live in a society, you will inevitably have people impacting your life that don’t value those things. It can be difficult enough for adults to stick to their principles, when faced with people and things that conflict with them, but even more challenging for children who are just learning these morals. I know people whose answer to this predicament is to create a barrier between their children and the world. This response has always made me uncomfortable for several reasons. First, I believe Jesus calls us to minister to everyone around us, not just the people who fit our own criteria. Second, a lot of teachable moments occur in those undesirable experiences. Third, I believe a certain amount of testing really solidifies those values. I’m not suggesting we just throw our children out into the world. Obviously, certain protections need to be in place to guide our children as they grow. But I think too much protection can be just as detrimental as not enough. For our family, our goal is to slowly release them a little more into the world as they grow, so that they are ready to stand on their own two feet when they leave our home. There are times situations arise that we just can’t protect our family from, no matter how hard we try. I always worry about how these things and people may affect my children. Those are the times I have to remember God has a perfect plan, and put my faith in him. Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus answered them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5: 30-32 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. John 15:19 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 Originally posted August 2011