Although many parents believe that their adolescent children want to avoid spending time with them, a recent national poll reveals that nearly 50% of teens want to spend more time together as a family. This may surprise you, mom and dad, but the same poll shows that even though parents of teens may not feel respected—teens respect parents more when they are firm rather than weak in disciplining their children.

So, why do so many parents who claim to follow Christ buy into these myths?

A myth represents false concepts and therefore opposes truth. If the enemy can get you to invest in lies he can distract you and leave you ineffective for parenting God’s way.

John 8:44 tells us: Satan was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

Parents, in order to recognize lies presented by the enemy, you must first become familiar with the truth of God’s Word. Begin today reading a verse in the Bible and meditating on that same verse throughout the day. Ask the Lord to show you what it means and how it can be practically applied in your life. Then, begin walking in its truth. Share with your children ways God’s truth is changing your life and discuss ways it can do the same for them.

1 Timothy 4:7 states: Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.

As parents, if we desire for our children to develop in Christ-likeness we must choose to have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales. Ask the Lord to show you if there is any area of your parenting that is based on myth rather than truth. Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you to quickly recognize misleading statements or misguided counsel, and the strength to avoid investing in them.

As you consistently bust the myths in your life you will more effectively become a truth builder in the lives of your children.