Technology

 

A week ago, I learned something compelling I take on as wisdom in parenthood and I contemplated sharing this on social media. The Holy Spirit moved into my heart to share that my lesson can be taught across the border of all ages. I think of this as wisdom from the Holy Spirit

Last Sunday, I was finishing planning my lessons while Olivia and Caitlin were taking a nap. As you know, every Sunday is NFL game day and my team is the Kansas City Chiefs (9-0 Baby!). When Olivia and Caitlin both woke up from their nap, Caitlin was getting Olivia’s lunch ready and it dawned on me that the first thing I thought was, “The Chiefs played today”. So I pulled out my phone and started watching highlights of the game on ESPN because we don’t have cable TV. I was sitting at the table I’m focused on how amazing the Chiefs ended up winning the game with a blocked field goal while Olivia is eating lunch.

I can hear Caitlin affirming Olivia for eating her lunch, and then she says, “Aren’t you watching me, Dada, instead on your phone?” I felt frustrated and reacted by slamming my phone down and saying to Caitlin that she could’ve told me to just put my phone down and not hinting me (yep... big oops on me lol). She was shocked by my response and had to move away from the dining room to calm her mind and I was quiet around Olivia. After she left I realized I sinned against my wife because of the anger and reaction I made. I quickly assumed that Caitlin was being passive with me and did not want me on my phone, and I was wrong.

When Caitlin and I followed up on my heated moment, she told me that Olivia was trying to get my attention while I was on my phone watching the Chiefs highlight game, which was unimportant. Then Caitlin explained to me that my daughter was trying to connect with me while I was glued to my phone not paying attention to her. That hit me deep.

I understand we live in a fast-paced world, where notifications and screens dominate our attention. It’s crucial for all parents to intentionally set aside their phones and connect deeply with their children. Connecting with your kids fosters familial love and helps deepen your home's spiritual roots.

As the Proverbs tell us, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6, ESV). The moments we spend with our children aren’t just time spent; they invest in their character and faith and point them to Jesus who wants to connect with us.