Parenting in a Digital World: Foundations of Parenting in a Digital World

Parenting in a digital age is no easy task. As a parent and pastor, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply digital technology impacts our families. This blog post, based on insights from The Digital Parenting Guidebook and a recent session I facilitated, aims to provide foundational principles for parenting in a connected world. Let’s explore the challenges and opportunities of digital parenting and how we can approach this journey with intention, grace, and adaptability.

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Welcome to the Digital Age

Digital technology is woven into the fabric of our daily lives—it’s not going away. As parents, we’re tasked with equipping our children to navigate this world responsibly. But before diving in, ask yourself:

• What are your biggest concerns about parenting in a digital world?
• What tools and principles do you need to address these challenges?

David Tucker wisely reminds us that “digital parenting is a type of discipleship.” It requires us to both teach and model the behaviors we want our children to adopt. This is hard, counter-cultural work. Your children will test boundaries, and society may push back on your efforts. But with commitment and consistency, you can guide your family through this complex terrain.

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Guiding Principles for Digital Parenting

At its core, parenting in a digital world boils down to three key roles: protecting, guiding, and empowering our children.

1. Protection

The internet opens our children to harmful content, interactions, and addictive tendencies. Establishing boundaries—like screen time limits and content filters—is essential to protect them.

2. Guidance

Parenting isn’t just about rules; it’s about relationships. Guide your children by:

• Modeling healthy digital habits: Demonstrate balanced tech usage. Put down your phone during family time and prioritize face-to-face interactions.
• Having open conversations: Talk with your kids about their online activities, friends, and feelings.
• Building trust: Create an environment where they feel safe coming to you with mistakes or concerns.

3. Empowerment

We can’t shield our children from technology forever, nor should we. Empower them by teaching responsible tech usage and providing age-appropriate freedoms. Encourage them to use technology creatively and productively—whether through coding, digital art, or research for their interests.

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Know Your “Why”

Every family needs a clear purpose behind their digital parenting. Here are mine:

1. Foster Creativity and Productivity
   Boredom often breeds creativity. Encourage your children to play, build, draw, and explore outside the screen.

2. Set Healthy Boundaries
   Unrestricted tech use can lead to addiction, especially for young, developing brains. Guide your children in establishing limits for social media, video games, and other digital activities.

3. Prepare for Future Tech
   Technology evolves rapidly—AI, robotics, and embedded devices are just around the corner. Lay a solid foundation now so your children can adapt as they grow.

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Obstacles to Overcome

Parenting in the digital world comes with unique challenges:

• Screen Addiction: Devices are designed to be addictive—for us and our kids. Break the cycle by modeling balance.
• Parental Inconsistency: Ensure you and your co-parent are aligned on boundaries and rules. Consistency is key.
• Peer Influence: Other families may not share your values, exposing your children to unregulated tech. Use these moments to reinforce your family’s principles.
• Overwhelm: The pace of digital change can feel daunting. Stay informed but give yourself grace—it’s impossible to know everything.

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Simple Steps to Start Today

If digital parenting feels overwhelming, take these immediate actions:

1. Set Boundaries
   Discuss and establish age-appropriate tech limits with your spouse or co-parent.

2. Initiate Conversations
   Ask your children about their online activities, friends, and feelings. For older kids, involve them in boundary-setting to foster a sense of ownership.

3. Educate Yourself
   Learn about the platforms and apps your children use. Staying informed will help you make better decisions.

4. Model Good Habits
   Your behavior is your children’s biggest influence. Make tech-free family time a priority, and show them how to balance digital and real-world interactions.

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A Final Word

As parents, we are uniquely positioned to guide our children through the complexities of the digital world. And remember: if God has called you to this task, He will provide the wisdom and resources you need. Lean on Him, and don’t be afraid to ask for help—from mentors, fellow parents, or trusted resources.

What’s your biggest challenge or success story when it comes to digital parenting? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear from you.

Grow in Wisdom

 Life has a funny way of showing us how little control we actually have. Even the best-laid plans are no match for life’s unpredictability. Mark Batterson captures this truth perfectly in his book In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day with the story of a malfunctioning car horn.

One morning, while stopped at a red light, Batterson tapped his horn to signal the car ahead. But what began as a polite gesture quickly turned into chaos when the horn jammed and wouldn’t stop honking. After pulling into a gas station, mortified but relieved, the family thought the problem was solved—only for the horn to start blaring again on the highway at 70 mph.

Batterson describes the confusion of other drivers and the sheer panic in the car as he pounded on the horn to silence it. What should have been a simple, peaceful drive turned into 15 minutes of chaos, frustration, and embarrassment. Yet, looking back, it became the highlight of their trip—unplanned, unforgettable, and filled with unexpected joy.

This story reminds us that life often doesn’t go according to plan. Despite our best efforts to create order and control, the unpredictable always finds a way to surprise us. In those moments, we’re forced to ask: How do I respond when life doesn’t go as expected?

The answer lies in wisdom. Wisdom helps us navigate life’s uncertainties skillfully and faithfully, relying on God rather than ourselves. But what is wisdom? And how do we grow in it?

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Defining Wisdom and Proverbs

Wisdom is more than knowledge; it is godly insight that enables us to live well in God’s world. It involves applying truth to life in a way that honors God and benefits others. Wisdom recognizes the limitations of our understanding and trusts God’s infinite perspective instead.

The book of Proverbs serves as a guide to gaining wisdom. But what is a proverb? A proverb is a short, memorable saying that conveys general truth, practical advice, or a moral lesson. Proverbs distill life’s complexities into nuggets of truth, making them easy to remember and apply.

For example:

• “Actions speak louder than words” reminds us that deeds carry more weight than promises.
• “A stitch in time saves nine” encourages addressing problems early to avoid bigger issues later.

The proverbs in Scripture are unique because they are inspired by God and rooted in His character. They provide wisdom for living in a way that aligns with His will and brings glory to His name.

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Wisdom: God’s Design for Living

God desires that His people live with wisdom. From the beginning, God’s law and His Word were designed to guide His people—not merely as rules to follow but as wisdom to meditate on. The book of Proverbs encapsulates this divine guidance, offering timeless truths for every season of life.

Proverbs 9:11-12 highlights the benefits of wisdom: a longer, fuller life marked by healthier relationships and sound decisions. Wisdom protects us from unnecessary risks and destructive choices, enriching our lives in ways we can’t always measure.

If wisdom is so valuable, how do we grow in it? Proverbs 3:5-7 gives us three steps: lean on God, learn His will, and leave sin behind.

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Step 1: Lean on God (Proverbs 3:5)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding.”

Trusting God begins with humility—acknowledging that our perspective is limited while God’s is infinite. Just as we wouldn’t lean on a weak crutch, we must not rely on our flawed understanding. Instead, we lean on God, trusting Him for wisdom, truth, and guidance.

Peter reinforces this in 1 Peter 5:6-7: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God...casting all your cares on Him, because He cares for you.” Trust requires surrender, believing that God cares for us and will provide what we need.

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Step 2: Learn God’s Will (Proverbs 3:6)

“In all your ways know Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Part of humility is realizing that our way is not always the best way. Paul emphasizes this in Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.”

Renewing our minds means seeing the world from God’s perspective—understanding His definition of good and evil and committing to live accordingly. This requires immersing ourselves in Scripture and allowing God’s truth to shape our thoughts, decisions, and actions.

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Step 3: Leave Sin Behind (Proverbs 3:7)

“Don’t be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil.”

Wisdom demands that we leave sin behind. Sin blinds us to God’s will and damages our relationship with Him. Paul’s words in Colossians 3:5 are clear: “Put to death what belongs to your earthly nature.”

Sin often stems from pride—trusting our wisdom instead of God’s. But to live wisely, we must fear the Lord, submit to His authority, and reject what He calls evil. This requires a daily commitment to pursue holiness and align our lives with His will.

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The Call to Trust God

To live with wisdom, we must trust God more than ourselves. This means leaning on Him, learning His will, and leaving sin behind. Wisdom doesn’t come by accident; it requires intentionality and effort.

Thankfully, God promises to provide wisdom to those who seek it. James 1:5 encourages us: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.”

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Final Thought

The very first sin in the Garden of Eden was humanity’s choice to rely on their own wisdom instead of trusting God. That choice led to brokenness. Yet through Christ, we are invited to return to God’s wisdom, trusting Him fully and following His ways.

Let’s commit to cultivating hearts ready to grow in wisdom. Together, we can embrace the life God intended—leaning on Him, learning His will, and leaving sin behind.

Thinking Clearly About Truth

In today’s digital age, the pursuit of truth often feels like navigating a maze of confusion. Fake news, conflicting opinions, and unchecked narratives bombard us daily. A quick scroll through social media can leave us wondering: what is real, and how do we know?

This struggle to discern truth isn’t new. In John 18:37-38, during Jesus’ trial, Pilate asks Jesus the timeless question: “What is truth?” This question reflects the skepticism and uncertainty of his time—a skepticism that echoes loudly in our culture today.

But amid the noise of our media age, there’s good news: truth is not abstract or unattainable. Truth is grounded in a person—Jesus Christ. His resurrection is the cornerstone of truth, offering clarity and hope in a world of confusion.

The Reality of Confusion and Doubt 

• Pilate’s Skepticism 

Pilate’s question reveals a heart unsure of what to believe, mirroring the challenges we face. The relativism of his day parallels our culture’s tendency to view truth as subjective—“what’s true for you may not be true for me.” This mindset leads to division and mistrust.

• Biblical Truth 

Against this backdrop, Jesus declares: “For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth” (John 18:37). Christ’s mission was to reveal truth about God, humanity, and the hope found in Him.

Truth, as defined biblically, corresponds to reality, is consistent and unchanging, and aligns with the character and revelation of God. It is not shaped by feelings, opinions, or trends.

The Foundation of Truth: The Resurrection of Jesus

• The Core of Christian Faith 

The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate proof of His divinity and the fulfillment of God’s promises. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” Without the resurrection, Christianity crumbles.

• Why the Resurrection Matters 

1. Validation of Jesus’ Teachings: Everything Jesus taught—about God, salvation, and eternal life—is confirmed by His resurrection.

2. Victory Over Sin and Death: The empty tomb proclaims hope and life beyond this world.

3. A Standard for Truth: If the resurrection is true, then Jesus’ words carry ultimate authority, offering a clear lens to discern right from wrong.

Believing in the resurrection transforms our worldview, anchoring us in eternal hope and unshakable truth.

Discerning Truth in an Age of Misinformation

• The Challenge of Misinformation 

The digital age has made information more accessible—and more confusing. Every day, we’re faced with competing narratives that blur the lines between fact and fiction. This constant bombardment can lead to spiritual doubt and distraction.

• The Role of Scripture and the Holy Spirit

In John 17:17, Jesus prays, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” The Bible is a reliable and eternal source of truth, providing a standard against which all else is measured. Additionally, the Holy Spirit guides us into truth (John 16:13), helping us discern what aligns with God’s Word.

Practical Steps for Discerning Truth:

1. Test Everything Against Scripture (Acts 17:11): Measure information against God’s Word to see if it aligns with His teachings.

2. Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance (John 16:13): Pray for clarity and discernment.

3. Verify Sources and Cross-Check Facts: Don’t accept claims at face value—research and confirm their credibility.

4. Ask Critical Questions (Proverbs 18:17): Evaluate evidence and motives behind claims.

5. Evaluate the Fruit (Matthew 7:16-20): Consider the outcomes of believing something—does it lead to godliness or division?

By anchoring ourselves in Scripture, relying on the Holy Spirit, and practicing discernment, we can navigate misinformation with confidence. 

The Call to Live Out Truth

• Personal Integrity 

As followers of Jesus, we are called to embody truth in our actions and words. This includes being honest, consistent, and faithful witnesses to Christ’s transformative power.

• Sharing the Gospel Truth 

In a world searching for meaning, the gospel is the greatest truth we can offer. As 1 Peter 3:15 reminds us, we must always be prepared to give an answer for the hope we have—a hope rooted in the resurrection.

The resurrection is not just a historical event; it’s a life-changing truth that shapes how we live and believe. Let it guide your decisions, strengthen your faith, and inspire you to share Christ with others.

Final Thought

The search for truth ends at the empty tomb. Jesus came to bear witness to the truth, and His resurrection confirms it. In a world filled with confusion, the resurrection is our firm foundation.

Truth is not just an idea—it’s a person. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Let His resurrection guide you as you navigate the complexities of life, and may you boldly proclaim His truth to a world in desperate need.

51 Truths I have Learned in 51 Years

Today is my 51st birthday. My birthday present to you are these truths that I have learned during my 51 years of life.

1. If you go for the right reasons, God will get you to the right place.” — I heard Erwin McManus say this back in 2003, and it has been a guiding principle for my life ever since. Our motivations matter.
2. Every person is a theologian, whether consciously or unconsciously. What you believe about God shapes your worldview and the way you live. Take time to reflect on what you believe and why.
3. Humans are created in God’s image. This means we are to represent Him in everything we say and do.
4. The Lord of the Rings is the greatest story ever written.
5. No matter what team you cheer for there will be moments of exhilaration, frustration, hope, and despair. The key is to not let our emotions be dictated by the final score. Thankfully I have celebrated 3 championships for the Boston Celtics and 3 for the Denver Broncos during my time as a fan.
6. Smoking meat is a great hobby.
7. The Bible may not provide the answers to all the questions asked in our culture, but it does provide a framework that helps us create a Christian worldview.
8. I was 37 years-old when I married Jenny. It is totally worth waiting for the right person, even when there are moments you wonder if it will ever happen.
9. We are citizens of heaven first. Our mission isn’t to win elections but to make disciples and be a blessing to our community. This is how exiles of the Kingdom live in the world.
10. Dogs offer great companionship.
11. Hiking in the mountains is the best type of vacation. 
12. What we believe about God influences our decisions, values, and purpose in life. Don’t just follow the crowd—reflect deeply on your faith and how it shapes your path.
13. Growing up on a farm is a great life for a young boy.
14. The resurrection of Jesus is the central truth of Christianity. If it didn’t happen following Jesus wouldn’t matter. Because it did, there is nothing more important in life
15. Living a life of faith will naturally lead to living a counter-cultural life.
16. Being a life long learner is crucial to living a full life.
17. The Bible is an amazing book. I have grown to love it the more I read it, studied it, and learned about it. Taking time to get to know the Bible is worth the time and effort.
18. Smoking chicken is the best way to have chicken. The same can be said about turkey.
19. Northern Minnesota is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
20. “Those who know that God is on the throne and is in control of human affairs can remain calm amid the evils and sorrows of the world.” ~ John Stott, What Christ Thinks of the Church 
21. Ahsoka Tano is the best character in Star Wars, followed closely by Obi Wan Kenobi and Rex. This isn’t even debatable. 
22. God created us for community. We cannot fully reflect His image alone. It is only in community that we can be who He intends us to be. — Larry Crabb
23. Living with virtue makes us free from the consequences of bad choices that lead to our enslavement. When we are not enslaved we are free to help and serve those around us.
24. "If we don't allow scripture to challenge us at places where our culture is doing it's best to squeeze us into a different pattern, what use is it?" - N. T. Wright; Paul For Everyone: The Prison Letters
25. Our struggle isn't against people, but the spiritual forces that enslave us. Jesus came to set us free—our mission as the Church is to continue that work by loving our neighbors and making disciples. 
26. Hayden Fry is an underrated coach who produced a great coaching tree.
27. Even when Dad is in the room the kids will still ask for Mom.
28. A healthy relationship with God requires prayer. We are moved to pray when we understand who God is and his love for us. We will give God our worries and cares when we believe He loves us.
29. As Christians, our allegiance is to King Jesus, not political parties. When we engage in politics, our priority is to King Jesus and his mission of making disciples. 
30. Being a father is not only a rewarding experience, but also a learning experience. I have learned a lot about myself, following Jesus, and God’s love by being a dad.
31. One of the most powerful tools we have in spiritual formation is choosing. We are a product of our choices.
32. The most powerful political action a Christian can take is prayer (1 Timothy 2:1-4). We need to pray for our leaders that they govern with wisdom and justice. 
33. “For the follower of Jesus, servant leadership isn’t just an option, it’s a mandate.”— Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, The Servant Leader
34. The true hero of The Lord of the Rings is Samwise Gamgee. He is the one we should try to imitate.
35. Abiding fully means praying much. Prayer is the pulse of the spiritual life; it marks the outgoings of the heart towards God, and the incomings of divine power. Nothing can so effectively resist the devil as prayer. — Andrew Murray
36. Forgiving others is an extension of the forgiveness we have received from God, who, through Jesus, forgave our sins and opened the way for reconciliation to happen.
37. “However deep our sorrows or great our suffering, Jesus knows and cares.” ~ John Stott, What Christ Thinks of the Church
38. My life is better when I listen to Jenny.
39. Time is a precious resource, which means we need to be good stewards of it! Let's make the most of every moment and use our time wisely. We live wisely when we love God and love people.
40. We are all being formed spiritually, whether or not we are intentional about it. It is worth the time to be committed to our Christian Spiritual formation.
41. Being disciplined in how we live allows us to be good stewards of the miracle of salvation God has given for us.
42. The year 1913 was the worst year in United States history.
43. Our actions may not result in world peace or solve global hunger or diminish crime in our communities, but our choice to love, to forgive, and to serve can have a huge impact on those around us.
44. Larry Bird is the greatest basketball player of all time. His games transcends all different eras.
45. The true leader in the Church is the person who is loyal to Jesus. Doubts may come, hardships may arrive, and persecution may be present, but that leader remains committed to Jesus. No matter what, they will not forsake their King.
46. "The Bible is there to enable God's people to be equipped to do God's work in God's world, not to give them an excuse to sit back smugly, knowing they possess all God's truth." ~ N. T. Wright, Simply Christian
47. A Batman and James Bond team up would make for a great movie.
48. We need to challenge ourselves. Doing hard things is crucial for our mental and physical health.
49. Ron Paul is the greatest politician of my life time.
50. A holy life is characterized by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
51. Smoked cream cheese is a great treat.