Parents Are The Gatekeepers

I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it. Psalm  101:3

A gatekeeper is a human who controls access to something. For any parents out there, one of your primary duties as a responsible parent is to be their gatekeeper as they grow up and learn right versus wrong. You guide them by helping them make healthy and wise choices for what is appropriate in their life, based on God's standards found in the Bible. I heard a television Christian pastor, Jimmy Evans, refer to the job of parents as a gatekeeper.

In this very important role, mom and dad decide ultimately what is good for the child. You would not allow pornographic posters on the wall of their bedroom although once I visited a home years ago where the pre teen boy had centerfolds on his wall. Another area is video games and choice of television programs.  Just because everyone is doing it does not make it right and parents it is your job to be the example. Music needs to be monitored due to questionable lyrics. 'Plugged In Online' is a great source for monitoring the content of Hollywood movies as to their morality and values.  

The modern culture tries to lure and trap our children into believing their ways are better than the parents or God's ways and that is why it is essential, while they are under our roofs, we do the best job possible training them in the ways of the Lord. Now this is no guarantee that college is not going to make every attempt to turn them the other way, but that is when prayer comes in and in a big way.  If you are not taking charge and giving your child discipline and guidance it is not too late, do not allow the world to mold your child. If you have an adult child who has gotten off course after you did your part in his youth, just keep praying as God is in control and hears the cries of a praying mom and a praying dad. 

PRAYER: Father I need your help daily to walk the walk you have set before me. Guide me as a parent and help me to do what is right and trust you for the outcome. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Never Doubt The Prayers Of A Praying Mom

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1

I am blessed to be a long time participant in Moms in Prayer International(formerly Moms in Touch). This awesome non denominational, non political ministry began in a moms' living room in Southern California back in 1984. One thing they use on flyers is the title I used above and also "If you aren't praying for your child who is?" It does not matter what their age, they need prayer. I have been in an organized group as either a member or leader since 1996. 

You don't have to be a mom or even have children to pray, but it is nice when there are groups like this where other moms can help you lift burdens to the Lord. There are some who mock prayer, and some may even be your own children, but keep on keeping on. God hears you my dear friend. He loves you and He loves your children more than you do. 

Your heart may be breaking over something right now but know the Lord has heard your prayers. Do not lose hope. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you that you want me to pray and keep praying. When something comes up in life the first reaction should be to pray. Help me never forget this. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of worship to start your morning:

https://youtu.be/fx10drNM3gc