Ezekiel 18:20–24, 31–32 (NIV) “The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child. The righteousness of the righteous will be credited to them, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against them… Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!”

A grievous evil is infecting the Church today—parents compromising truth to comfort rebellious children. Out of fear of offending them, many Christian men are laying down biblical conviction to win family approval. But in doing so, they lose both their witness and their way.

Jesus warned, “Anyone who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me” (Matthew 10:37). Our allegiance to Christ must always outweigh our affection for even those closest to us. When we choose family peace over faithfulness to Jesus, we invite spiritual ruin into our homes.

Men of God, we must stand firm when our children—or anyone we love—abandon the truth. The Lord Almighty alone defines righteousness, holiness, and the path to eternal life. God’s Word never bends to cultural confusion or emotional blackmail.

Yet even as we stand firm, we must love like God loves—with patience, compassion, and unyielding truth. God does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked but calls all to repentance. His kindness leads to repentance, but His holiness will never tolerate sin. The door of mercy is open today, but it will not remain open forever.

“Now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). Every man must decide: Will I lead my home by conviction or by compromise? Will I live to please God or my children? Eternity hangs on our answer.

Faith that does not endure is not saving faith. Repentance proven by obedience is the mark of the man who truly knows Christ. To confess Jesus as Lord is to surrender every other loyalty to Him—including the desire to be accepted by family who reject Him.

Men, you are called to be guardians of truth in your families. Love your children as God loves—with compassion that never compromises. The righteous will live by faith, not fear. Stand firm, repent where needed, and lead your home toward life in Christ.

Run Today’s Play:

• Refuse compromise. Reaffirm your loyalty to Jesus above every earthly relationship.

• Repent of passivity. Confess where you have softened truth to avoid family conflict.

• Return to prayer. Intercede daily for your children and loved ones who walk away from truth.

• Renew your conviction. Lead your home in Scripture, not sentiment.

• Rest in grace. God is patient and powerful—trust Him to draw your prodigals home.