Parenting by Design - August 25

Price and Value

Ps 49:16-19:  "Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him.  Though while he lived he counted himself blessed — and men praise you when you prosper —  he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light [of life]" (NIV).

Do you ever get caught up in gawking at the "lifestyles of the rich and famous"?  The media offers us a front row seat to the excesses of the super rich.  Their houses, cars, clothes, and hobbies are all paraded before us as examples of "success".  Hasn't it always been true that "men praise you when you prosper"?

In light of the world's preoccupation with achieving "the good life", isn't it ironic that anything with a price, no matter how extravagant or expensive, will have zero eternal value?  Help your kids fight materialism by focusing on eternal significance.  The most effective way to communicate this message is not with your words, but with your example.  Take a moment and ask God to reveal any blind spots you might have in this area.  Commit to making one change, no matter how small, that more effectively demonstrates what you truly value.

Teach your children not to confuse price with value.