Our culture has created an entitlement society. Frankly, a lot of us have contributed to it. We buy our kids their every desire. “Mom, I’ve GOTTA get my nails done for homecoming.” Or, “Dad, I need the $200 basketball shoes—everybody’s wearing them.” As Christian parents, it’s easy for us to fall into the trap, too: buying a new car or home just to impress our friends and relatives. What’s the message we’re sending to our kids? Are these idols in our lives? Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying we can’t enjoy nice things. After all, God created them for our enjoyment. What I am saying is be careful buying everything you or your kids want. 1 John 2:15 says it best: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world,” because, if we do, “the love of the Father is not in [us]” (KJV).

Suggested Reading: 1 John 2:15