Only the Best

When our children were young, my wife Candy and I taught them to be skeptical of advertisements and exaggerated claims.

Candy would say, "Sugary cereal tastes good, but will it really make you strong like Superman?" The kids would shake their heads vigorously and say "No!"

As they grew older, during a commercial in the midst of a televised football game, I'd say, "Look how silly that guy is—he thinks drinking beer will make girls like him." Or, "They make it sound like you can really buy that car for $149 a month—but look how much they require for a down-payment!"

Unfortunately, Candy and I ourselves have been taken in by some products that turned out to be less exciting than advertised, like the tooth-whitening system that didn't give us pearly-white smiles but actually burned the inside of our mouths. We also paid good money for an electronic foot-massager and a bread-maker that ended up collecting dust in the closet.

Where our kids were concerned, we simply wanted the best for them. What parent wouldn't agree? Advertisers appeal to this natural desire. By saying, "Your children deserve the best," they make parents feel guilty if we don't provide our kids the right style of shoes or the right brand of chocolate milk.

Truth is, "the best" for our kids has little to do with the snacks they eat or the sneakers they wear.

I want my children and grandchildren exposed to the best role models possible. If you're an adult, please act like one.

I want them to respect authority. If you're a church leader, a law enforcement officer, or a government official, please keep your promises and set an example of integrity.

If you're a school teacher, the children in your classroom will remember you for the rest of their lives. I pray that you will have the wisdom to challenge, encourage, and inspire the young minds entrusted to your care.

I want every child to grow up with a healthy view of marriage and the family. If you're married, remember that young eyes are observing how you treat your spouse and your children. If you're a single adult, realize they are watching you as well.

I want the next generation to be well-versed in the Word of God and to receive the best biblical education possible. If you're a preacher, a youth minister, or a Sunday school teacher, please do your best to instill "the whole counsel of God" in the heart of every child.

I want young athletes to learn the joy of teamwork and healthy competition. If you're a coach, please model good sportsmanship and include character development in your definition of a winning season.

I want my kids to care about others. Are you willing to roll up your sleeves and work alongside them on mission trips and community service projects? If you don't want to raise up a generation of selfish kids, don't act like the world revolves around them (or around you).

I want the next generation to be filled with faith, hope, and love, so if you're part of the older generation, please rise above your own doubt, cynicism, and selfishness.

I want only the best for my kids. That's why, most of all, I pray for them to stay close to Jesus.