We know that we are from God, and that the whole world lies under the control of the evil one. And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. (1 John 5:19–20)
Many families are living in silent mourning, going through difficult seasons, under strong attacks from the enemy. How many suicides are taking place? How many children are rebelling and leaving home? How many young people are falling into prisons? Immorality and divorce are increasing every day. Abuse and verbal violence have become common. Drug and alcohol use has exceeded limits. The lack of respect and fear of God makes people think that we are truly living in deep darkness.
All this burden falls upon the family, because the devil’s plan is to destroy families and marriages, so that he may gain a greater hold on society, weakening the population. Our youth, who should be preparing to lead tomorrow according to God’s will, are being contaminated—and only God can help us.
This is not the time to try to cover things up, because nothing is hidden that will not be brought to light. Even when people try to hide things, you can feel the presence of evil and disorder. For a long time we have given such flexible education, without placing God at the center of the family, that now things have gotten out of hand.
Parents, remember that not everything a child desires should be granted, because the enemy also gives young people evil ideas which they may try out. If parents do not stand firm, the consequences will be theirs.
One thing must be very clear in every home: Parents, please, your child must have a set time to go out and a set time to return. Your child does NOT need to sleep over at a friend’s house. Teach your child that they have their own home where they belong and that every day they must return home.
Let us break this pattern because it brings problems. By the time you as a parent realize it, the enemy may already be far into your child’s life.
It is not only during the carnival season, but many things begin during that time, when parents become more flexible so that young people can enjoy themselves and have fun, while all kinds of sensuality and perversity are being poured upon them.
In the past, people worried about young people going out drinking during carnival, but now the times are more dangerous, because young people can fall into drugs or use dangerous substances that can permanently damage their minds. Young people harm themselves, fall into perversity and malice, and afterward want to take their own lives.
Parents, we want to remind you once more: you may be flexible, you may want to please, but the devil is not flexible. He comes only to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you (James 4:7–8).
Be sober, be vigilant. Your adversary the devil walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Do not open the door to the enemy. Stand firm in the Lord.
Pastor Marcel Balootje