Walking around town in the summer, especially in the South, you see most people wearing flip flops. They’re cool and convenient, whether you’re checking the mail or running out to the grocery store. But flip flops have no tread, no grip. And that’s fine when the terrain is smooth. But if you’re hiking the Grand Tetons, hugging the edge of a cliff, flip flops would never do. You need hiking boots.
Flip-Flop Faith
There was a time in our country when the spiritual landscape was pretty smooth and easy. Culture was friendly to Christianity. People knew there was Truth outside of themselves, and whether they adhered to it or not, at least they knew they should. Most people believed in God. Most people had a basic understanding of who Jesus is. Going to church was seen as “a good thing.” In those days, we could get by with a flip-flop-faith. Society wasn’t challenging it. Our faith didn’t have to be extremely deep, because society was at least pointing you in the right direction. That time is over.
Hiking Boot Faith
As Tim Keller pointed out, we are now in a post-Christian culture, where that basis no longer exists. Our current culture believes truth can be found within; we can define right and wrong; we can redefine ourselves. Now we need hiking-boot-faith. Our kids have to know the Word, and know what the implications are. They have to know what they believe and how to stand firm in it when everything around them is screaming the opposite.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. - Hebrews 4:12
Anchored in the Word
That’s why every kids’ lesson must be anchored in God’s Word. It is the only foundation for abundant life as God designed it. At KidzLife, we never water down the truth. We use kid-friendly verbiage and age-appropriate illustrations, but the Biblical truths remain intact and impactful. In fact, many weeks leaders have told us the lessons were as much for them as for the kids.
Whatever curriculum you choose, be sure to choose one that goes deep in God’s Word, lest we allow our kids’ feet to slip. We all know these days, that slip is dark and dire.
The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip. - Psalm 37:31