In Right from Wrong by Josh McDowell, he writes, “Only 15% of churched youths disagree with the statement, ‘What is right for one person in a given situation might not be right for another person who encounters the same situation.’ So 85% of churched kids are liable to reason, ‘Just because it’s wrong for you doesn’t mean it’s wrong for me.’ Their idea of the distinction between right and wrong is fluid, something that is subject to change, something that is relative and personal – not constant and universal. Our kids are confused about what truth is and who defines it; they are uncertain about what truths are absolute and what makes them absolute. Consequently, they are making conditional decisions, choosing what seems to be the best alternative at the time, without reference to any fundamental set of precepts or underlying principles to guide their behavior.

If our children are going to learn how to determine right from wrong, they must know what truths are absolute and why. They need to know what standards of behavior are right for all people, for all times, for all places. They need to know who determines truth and why.

When our youth do not accept an objective standard of truth they become (according to his research):

36% more likely to lie to you as a parent

48% more likely to cheat on an exam

2 times more likely to get drunk

2.25 tines more likely to steal

3 times more likely to use illegal drugs

6 times more likely to attempt suicide

Kids who fail to embrace truth as an objective standard that governs their lives are more likely to mistrust people, be disappointed and angry,and to lack life purpose. How our kids think about truth has a definite effect on their behavior – the choices they make and the attitudes they adopt.”

We will be talking more about this in future blogs. Family Night by the Book helps you carve out the time and gives you lessons and tools to talk to your kids about truth and the God who defines it. It’s a perfect time to find out what your kids are thinking and believing – and have some fun doing it! You can begin to affect attitudes and behavior in a single day. Sign up for our free 5 day e-course and see for yourself.

Blessings,

Beth and Dr. Ron