Q: I admit we never paid much attention to the television programs and films our children watched, but I’m beginning to wonder if we made a mistake. I guess we thought they’d learn how they ought to live by watching us, but now I’m not so sure. Have we missed something?
A: Raising our children is one of the most important responsibilities God gives us, and neglecting it or leaving it to others can be disastrous. The Bible says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
What have you missed? For one thing, I suspect you’ve lost sight of the impact the media makes on our children today. For example, how do they learn the difference between right and wrong? One way, of course, is by watching others—especially their parents. But they’re also deeply influenced by television and films—something that wasn’t true a few generations ago.
What impact will a steady diet of violence, sexual immorality, greed, and so forth have on them—especially if no one instructs them otherwise? The Bible bluntly says, “Hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).
What can you do? First, commit your lives and your family to Christ. God loves you, and He is more concerned about your children than you are. Make Christ your foundation, and begin rebuilding your family on God’s will.
Then ask God to help you give more attention to your children. Do things together as a family … teach your children how they should live (both by your example and your words) … pray with them … monitor what they watch … and seek out a church with an active Christ-centered youth program.
