March 8, 2010

The Andrews family represent another of the demographic groups which reside in Bartow county. “Young Aspiring Families,” are married couples and single parents with children. They comprise 7 percent of Bartow’s population. The median age of those occupying this group is 30.5 years old. Half of them own their own home, and the other half live in apartments or condominiums. “Young Aspiring Families” spend most of their discretionary income on clothes, toys, and activities for their children. These families enjoy eating out, going to movies and football games. They also like dancing, fishing, weight lifting, and playing basketball. They are also technologically savvy. They spend time surfing the internet, they chat in chat rooms, utilize text messaging, and tweet on twitter.

Unfortunately many of those in “Young Aspiring Families” are not followers of Jesus. By and large this group prefers their own activity and pleasure to

following the way of the Master. How do we reach them for Christ? We need to show them that the ancient wisdom of the Scriptures contain extremely important principles of which they are ignorant. Furthermore, we must convince them that should they learn and apply these Biblical principles their lives will be enriched and improved. One example of this wisdom is found in the Proverbs of Solomon.

1 A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. 2 Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all. 3 A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it. 4 Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life. 5 In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he who guards his soul stays far from them. 6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. 7 The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. Proverbs 22:1–7

Let’s show them that being called by the name of the Heavenly Father is more valuable than the money they spend so much time and effort earning. Let’s show them that they are leading their families into serious peril because of their neglect of God’s salvation.

Pray that God will use you and other Christians to text, twitter, or email the “Young Aspiring Families” an invitation to have a spiritual conversation in which you explain to them how they can find salvation in Christ. Then share with them God’s promise to all who raise their children in the way of the Lord.