God has a purpose for the family. Throughout history, God has implemented a strategy of passing beliefs on from one generation to the next. His original intent is seen in the heritage of the Jews.

Noah built an ark so that his family would not only be spared from destruction, but so that they would reestablish relationship between God and man (Genesis 7). Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob -- all had a mandate from God to pass on the tenants of their faith and their knowledge of Jehovah to their sons and daughters that their ". . . seed shall be mighty upon earth . . ." (Psalms 112:2). Moses, was shielded from death and would eventually lead the Israelites to freedom that they might worship the One True God-and raise their children to do the same. Esther was placed in a strategic position -- called and appointed by God for "such a time as this" -- that she might influence the king to spare the lives of her people, thus preserving the bloodline of faith.

God's plan throughout the Old Testament was to preserve the lineage of the Jewish people that He might bring forth the Messiah through the Jewish bloodline. Without a stronghold of faith, passed from generation to generation, the lineage would have been lost. God thinks, acts, and plans in terms of family and bloodlines to accomplish His purposes.

Now, I ask you: What is God's purpose for your family? I believe it is the same purpose He has had for every family throughout history: To establish a lineage of faith -- a generational stronghold, if you will, that will not only pass on Christian values, but instill the roots of righteous living founded in a strong faith in Jesus Christ; a stronghold that will reach beyond you and your children. I believe home education carries with it the elements needed to pass on your faith in a way that it will "stick" --not just in your children's lives, but for generations to come.

Armed with this understanding of God's purpose for the family, home schooling now moves from the academic realm into the spiritual or eternal realm. I believe this is a crucial mind shift parents must make if we are to truly influence the lives of future generations. This does not lessen the importance of academic pursuits; however, it does bring them into balance.

If we desire to raise a new generation of homeschoolers, we must reflect the right attitudes regarding the role of home education in shaping future generations. I believe there are three specific things we can do to this end: maintain a positive attitude toward homeschooling, express true appreciation for the freedom and ability to homeschool, and model an authentic lifestyle of faith, growth, and purpose before our children.

First, we must maintain a positive attitude toward homeschooling.