"Preparing Our Children for War"
War --the word strikes apprehension and fear. Some of us know firsthand the effects of war while others have seen only enough to know it is not what we want for our children. However, I would like to remind you that we ARE fighting a real war. We have placed our children in the camp of a Christian school to be protected and nurtured to fight on the winning side. But are our children truly prepared for the spiritual and moral war they will face in life?
Satan's hold on the youth of today appears to be getting stronger. Children today face an onslaught of sin more open and adulterated than ever before. Every-where we turn it seems we are bombarded with sex, rebellion, immorality, and the occult. Consider the recent Harry Potter rave. Whether or not you agree with various Christian commentators, you would agree that this series has already caused more curiosity and interest in the occult world than has any other piece of juvenile writing in decades. And, it is written very specifically for our children! Those unaware of God's truth and wisdom will be led astray quickly and become vulnerable to the sin of witchcraft and the occult. Satan's most deceptive tool is that of "curiosity" and "exploration." False religions glorify such things as well. Your child will be challenged to just "try" things --from an intellectual perspective as never before. Yes, we must recognize this as "war." We have been fighting it since the Garden of Eden. Oh, that we prepare our children, for they have no choice but to be involved. Christian schools are a blessing and provide some instruction in this war. However, WE must individually be sure OUR child is prepared. Satan works even within our schools sometimes, and we must teach our children discernment. Let us ask ourselves (or perhaps our child) the following questions:
1. Can our child thoroughly explain the plan of Salvation?
2. Can our child determine what is right in modern morally acceptable issues?
3. Is our child sensitive to immorality in movies or on TV?
4. Does our child know about the armor of God? Does he or she use it?
5. Are we putting God's Word into our children's hearts?
6. Does our child know how to call on the power and name of Jesus Christ in a spiritual attack?
7. Are WE fighting this war as God would have us... or are we just hiding out in camp?