Pastor Rob Norris (image courtesy of Google Images)

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

Psalm 31:4 – Protect me from hidden traps and keep me safe.

Try to picture this scene: With 50,000 men watching intensely, a 15-year-old young man (Trent, blindfolded and barefoot), begins stepping cautiously across an outdoor stage. Before him are a dozen steel animal traps with their jaws wide open. Each is labeled with words like Peer Pressure, Drugs and Alcohol, Sexual Immorality, Rebellion, and Pornography – the “traps” that can easily ensnare teenagers today.

On the opposite end of the platform stands the boy’s father, Tom, anticipating his son’s every move. After two tentative steps, the boy’s third step places him directly in the path of the biggest snare on the stage, a bear trap powerful enough to absolutely crush his leg. It had taken three grown men just to set it.

Before his son can raise another foot, Tom yells into the microphone, “Trent, stop! Don’t take another step!” Circling the traps, he positions himself in between his son and the bear trap. After whispering some instructions, he turns his back to the boy. Trent eagerly places his hands on his father’s shoulders. Then slowly, they begin navigating the trap field together. When the two finally reach the other side and the blindfold is removed, the father and son hug each other.

The applause at this Promise Keepers event swelled to a thunderous standing ovation across the stadium. Above the roar, the host said, “Men, that’s what God has called us to as fathers; to be there and guide our children through the traps of adolescence!”

For Tom and Trent, the trap demonstration was a setup on a stage. But for you and your child, the traps of adolescence are all too real and treacherous. Don’t allow your children to risk the journey on their own. Grab them by the hand, watch your step, and move out together. Let God guide you through.

Live it: What do you not know about the traps in your child’s world? Make plans to find out.

Pray: For God’s ongoing protection over your children and for your ongoing vigilance as their parents.

Join us at The Crossings, Sundays at 10 am.
Meeting at River Heights Intermediate School.
7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale, CA 92880
951-847-6836
http://www.atthecrossings.com
Trusting and Believing with you!