This post was created from our OPP Podcast Episode with the same name. Click Here to watch.
In the modern world where beliefs and values seem to shift and change constantly, it’s essential for parents to instill strong convictions in their children. Convictions are more than just beliefs; they are principles that guide our lives and help us make important decisions. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of anchoring our kids in convictions and how it can shape their character and actions.
Defining Convictions: Convictions go beyond mere beliefs. While beliefs can change over time, convictions are deeply held principles that we are willing to defend and live by. They are the non-negotiables in our lives, the values we draw a line in the sand for. When raising children, it’s crucial to identify these convictions and instill them early on, providing a strong foundation for navigating the storms of life.
Determining Convictions: The question arises: who or what determines our convictions? While convictions can exist independently of spiritual or religious beliefs, as parents who follow Jesus, it is important to ensure that our convictions align with Scripture. Our convictions should either directly come from the Bible or at least be compatible with biblical principles. However, it’s worth noting that even non-religious individuals can have convictions that are grounded in universal values, which often align with biblical principles.
The Role of Convictions: As parents, we have the responsibility to instill convictions in our children. These convictions serve as anchors that provide security and guidance as they navigate through life. By establishing convictions early on, we equip our children with a moral compass to make wise decisions and stand firm when faced with challenging situations. Convictions shape their character, helping them become principled individuals who make positive contributions to society.
Balancing Convictions: While it is important to have convictions, it’s equally crucial not to overwhelm our children with an excessive number of convictions. Instead, we should focus on instilling a core set of convictions that are aligned with our faith and values. These convictions can evolve and expand as our children grow and gain a deeper understanding of Scripture and the world around them. By providing a balanced approach, we enable our children to navigate the complexities of life while staying rooted in their convictions.
Teaching Convictions: Teaching convictions to our children requires intentional effort and ongoing discussions. We can introduce convictions through age-appropriate conversations, stories, and examples. By explaining the reasoning behind our convictions and demonstrating how they align with our faith, we help our children understand their importance. It is also crucial to allow our children to ask questions and engage in dialogue, fostering critical thinking and a deeper understanding of their convictions.
The Impact of Convictions: When children are anchored in convictions, they are more likely to make choices based on strong moral principles. Convictions provide a solid foundation for their relationships, interactions, and decision-making processes. As they grow into adulthood, these convictions will guide them through challenging situations and enable them to uphold their values in a wishy-washy world.
Raising kids with conviction in a wishy-washy world is no easy task. However, by identifying and instilling strong convictions in our children, we equip them with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of life. Convictions provide a moral compass and a sense of purpose. As parents, let’s celebrate the opportunity to guide our children with conviction, empowering them to make a positive impact on the world around them.
