It's a fight for our 'hearts' in today's culture, time to put the armor on each morning.

The "Hogue Hut" wants to give you parents something special. Putting on the Armor of God each morning has become a 'blast' for our kids, and for us as parents. It's the morning ritual (not legalism, we forget and have attitudes too) for our journey to the school campus.

Just to explain, 'the fight'; it's not a fight against other people, or culture's educators, politics nor agendas. This armor is for fighting against the temptations of a mind that loses focus of Abba's purposes for Graceland.

Since Tammy, (my righteous fox), and I determined long ago that we wanted to raise authentic, culturally relevant, and missional kids, we created this fun and applicable 'statement of determination'.

Before they leave the house, or as one of us drives them to school, you'll hear our two daughters, as well as Tammy or me, reciting our hunger to put the Armor of God on our hearts, minds and character faith.

We usually stop by the local coffee shop as we head for the high school campus. After pulling out with our mochas and lattes, someone asks the question, "So, are we ready to love the day and others in it?" Then it starts; we recite the Armor of God aloud in the car.

We put on the helmet of knowing Jesus' salvation, the breastplate of a right-relationship with Jesus, and others. We grab hold of the sword of His Spirit in us and through us to others.We prepare our feet with the actions (deeds) of the gospel, and then we decide to place truth upon the most personal part of our character and person. All of this enabled by an awesome shield dipped in active faith.

Then the best part, we all...in unison...shout, "and our butt is bare, because there is no retreat!

Have you ever noticed this, if you run from loving the culture you chose to leave yourself wide open with no defense. Ouch!

Try it this week.

My daughters are teenagers, both in high school, but they love to be reminded that we are here for a purpose. To know people, love people and reach people with the love of Jesus. And yes, there is a battle - but it is not against "those people" (who are just like us), man's created politics or agenda influenced policies.

Our battle is against the hold of sin in our lives and the ploys of the enemy who desires to hate God's icons of created image.

It has changed our girls viewpoint of purpose of relationships. Yes, your Christian kids can have great friendships (even best friendships) with cultural (yet to come to faith in Jesus) kids. But get ready, they will come to your house to party, let'em stay the weekend.

Throw your 'up-tightness' out the window and relate. Love the messy situations and communicate (listen most of the time) with today's hungry teenager.

Teach them the Armor of God, and welcome them to Graceland - a journey that never discourages. And by the way, don't try to place a protector on your backside, there is no retreating in Graceland. 

Comments: talkback@erichogue.com

Web: www.erichogue.com