A good share of my public ministry was spent as editor-in-chief for a succession of Christian family magazines. These publications addressed issues families deal with on a daily basis. My role provided plenty of opportunities to speak with parents, often in groups. I learned how to ask questions that would get to the heart of serious matters quickly. One question, in particular, was a sure bet for generating a rich discussion: Why do you think God gave you a child?
The initial reaction was usually something like, “…To love my child,” “… So that my child learns to become a good person,” “… Because God loves me,” or, “…To protect my child from harm.” Good answers from sincere parents who obviously loved their children.
Eventually someone would recognize I was searching for a deeper answer. Then they would enthusiastically respond with, “… To lead my child to Jesus.” Bingo! It was the opening I had been waiting for. My follow-up stirred the pot a little more: “OK, if that’s God’s main reason for giving us kids, what can we do in our own homes to lead our children to their Savior?” The group always had great ideas about family prayer, Bible reading, using teachable moments to discuss Bible principles, talking about hard topics like death, illness, sex, conflict, and troubled relationships. But there was also pause for some deeper soul-searching.
Many parents believed they were not doing a good job of living their faith at home. Some felt incapable of talking about the Bible because they lacked training. Others said they didn’t understand what they were supposed to be teaching their children. Some said they preferred to have others do it for them. A few shied away from religious talk at home because they were afraid of offending an unbelieving spouse. A handful thought they were just too busy. Instead of being uplifted by all the good ideas, I left these sessions concluding that a lot of good Christian parents were desperately in need of coaching to help them do the job God ordained for them in their role as parents.
At the urging of trusted colleagues, I made it my business to learn more about the interplay of character and culture to see if I could get a better grip on how character is formed and who is influencing the forming of our children’s character today. The process led me to a better understanding of a kind of character that can truly be called Christian. I concluded that parents are the key. Embracing Godly Character is an extension of that study. It represents an effort to initiate a serious conversation about Christian ethics, morality, virtue, and the development of godly character in future generations.
Kenneth Kremer’s career is distinguished by a life-long love for learning and a deep personal commitment to Christian education. A former principal, teacher, family counselor, public speaker, and published author; Kremer is a fierce advocate for enriching and improving the faith life of the Christian family. His most recent books include, Called to Testify: The First Christian Witnesses; Foundations: A Parent’s Introduction to Christian Education; and, A Heart at Peace: Biblical Strategies for Christians in Conflict.