We are constantly facing cultural pressures that challenge our faith. Constantly. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, isn’t it? How can we hold onto our convictions and be a light in the darkness? And how can we teach our kids to do the same?

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Martyn Iles, CEO of Answers in Genesis, in Episode 127 of CHRISTIAN PARENT/CRAZY WORLD for a powerful conversation about living faithfully in a “lost culture.” Together, we explored the story of Daniel and his friends in Babylon—a story that feels so relevant to the challenges we face today.

Martyn shared how Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego endured intense cultural indoctrination, with even their names being changed in an attempt to erase their religious identities. Yet, despite the pressures to conform, they held tightly to their faith and identity in God.

As Martyn explains, this story serves as a powerful metaphor for our world today. Cultural shifts and societal pressures often aim to redefine our values, but like Daniel and his friends, we can stay grounded in truth.

So, how do we resist compromise and live with purpose in a world that often pulls us away from God? Martyn shared four key principles that I found incredibly encouraging and practical:

• Decide ahead of time. Daniel resolved not to compromise his faith, and we can do the same by setting clear boundaries before we face temptation.
• Trust God with your future. Daniel didn’t try to control everything—he allowed God to lead him, step by step.
• Live by God’s principles. Our job is to do the right thing and trust God to take care of the rest.
• Live for God’s approval. Instead of seeking validation from others, we can focus on pleasing God and remaining aware of His presence in our lives.

These principles are a guide for us as parents and for our children as well. We have the responsibility to instill these lessons in our children, equipping them to navigate our lost culture with faith and courage.

Let’s take inspiration from Daniel and his friends as we strive to live faithfully and shine brightly in today’s world. And be inspired by Martyn’s message of how to live faithfully in a lost culture. Trust me, this email pales in comparison to hearing Martyn unpack these eternal truths when we need to hear them most.

You can listen to the full episode  on Life Audio by clicking on the image below:

Or you can listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, or wherever you get your podcasts. And please consider giving CP/CW a 5-star rating on Apple Podcast or Spotify. That would make my day!

About the Guest: Martyn Iles is an Australian-born lawyer, commentator, and the Executive CEO of Answers in Genesis. Previously the co-founder of a not-for-profit law firm specializing in religious freedom cases, he also led one of Australia’s largest grassroots political movements through a 5-year period of remarkable growth. Martyn became known for his many gospel-focused appearances in the Australian mainstream media and for his online programs, Living in Babylon, The Truth of It, and Truth in 10. Martyn has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Queensland and a Master of Laws from the Australian National University.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

Other Episodes in this series:

Ep. 126: “What Most Christians Don’t Know about Living in a Lost Culture“

“Most Christians Don’t Know This about Babylon”

Answers in Genesis

Martyn Iles: Youtube Channel, Instagram, Facebook

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

Daniel 3

Matthew 5