The One Thing That Makes Parenting Tough Today

Distractions, Distractions, Distractions

Every culture and generation could say, "Parenting is particularly hard because . . ." But I think there is one thing that is particularly unique about the culture in which we live. It is the availability of things—powerful, attractive things—that distract us.

We are so constantly distracted! It is hard to have quiet. It is hard to have reflection. It is hard to have moments of meditation. It is hard to have long conversations without being interrupted by some electronic device that's in my life.

And it's very easy to use powerful electronic tools to babysit your children as you're about doing whatever. Make sure that your family isn't so distracted by the powerful media that is everywhere in our lives, that those important quiet moments of reflection, examination, conversation, wisdom, guidance, forgiveness and grace become neglected. Make sure that they are not so interrupted that you are never able to do the thing that every parent needs to do with their child.

Distraction is a huge issue for the modern Christian parent.

Originally published here. Used by permission from Crossway.

Paul David Tripp

Paul David Tripp (DMin, Westminster Theological Seminary) is a pastor, author, and international conference speaker. He is also the president of Paul Tripp Ministries. He has written a number of popular books on Christian living, including What Did You Expect?, , Dangerous Calling, , Parenting, , Sex in a Broken World, and , and New Morning Mercies. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife Luella and they have four grown children. For more information and resources, visit paultrippministries.org. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife Luella and they have four grown children. For more information and resources, visit paultrippministries.org.