From the moment my son, Josh, and I walked into their house, I was surprised to see all the things Trevor had. After the rest of his guests arrived, Trevor took them in the garage to show them his four-wheeler, his dirt bike, his hockey equipment, his bicycles, and other items. Inside Trevor showed the boys his electric guitar (which he didn’t know how to play yet), his drums (ditto), his own computer, and his TV. I could tell Josh was impressed and so were the other boys.

When it was time to open the gifts, Trevor tore the wrapping paper off one present and said, “Aw, I already have one of these.” He tossed it aside and proceeded to the next gift, unimpressed by each one. Marcia reminded him to thank his guests. I could tell she was embarrassed.

Most of us in the United States still have a high standard of living when compared to the rest of the world. But having plenty of things also has a downside. Many kids today have a sense of entitlement and think they should have the biggest, best, and most expensive everything. They aren’t used to working or waiting for what they have, let alone doing without. Appreciation for things is sometimes practically nonexistent.

Pray that the Lord will help you to be wise in the purchases you make and that He will help you and your children be thankful for what you have.