THE NEW AMERICAN IDOL: SELF ESTEEM
The above title is not mine but came from a book written by Joe Wells, entitled Game Plan. Read that book! Here is a quote:
“For Dr. Jene Twenge, professor of psychology at San Diego State University, the reference to today’s generation of young people as ‘Millennials’ or ‘Mosaics’’ doesn’t quite capture the true attitude and focus of this group. Twenge points out that this generation of people has been told all their lives how special they are, and they have genuinely bought into this idea. Today’s teens believe that when they walk into a room, they deserve to be recognized. When two adults are talking, this current generation has been lead to believe that they have the right and are in the position to join in that conversation, interjecting their thoughts and feelings. Through outlets such as YouTube, UStream, Facebook, and Twitter, their thoughts and feelings are no longer reserved for their immediate circle of friends, but are broadcast across the globe. Why? Because our culture teaches us ‘everyone cares what my thoughts are…And even if someone doesn’t actually care, I should still exercise my right to tell everyone what’s on my mind.’”
In my humble judgment parents have relinquished control of their children. The children are in control. Parents wake up! The Bible teaches, “And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). Children are to be taught to obey the parents (Eph. 6:1) not the other way around.
Solomon gives much instruction to both parents and children but this article is focusing on the parent’s responsibility to take control of their children. “My son, keep thy father’s commandments, and forsake not the law of thy mother” (Prov. 6:20). Father what are your commandments? Mother what is your law? Do you have rules and stick to them. Are you more interested in your children being popular than right?
Parents have a twofold responsibility. One is instruction as can be seen in the above passages (Eph. 6:4; Prov.6:20). Teach them! Instruct them! Show them the way! Parents don’t be bullied by a child. A second responsibility is discipline. “He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly” (Prov. 13:24). Remember this passage, “Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him” (Prov. 22:15).
Teach your children this verse, “O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jer. 10:23).
Larry