Biblical Answer

To prioritize our values, we must first identify what is truly important to us. This involves setting priorities, examining for inefficiency, and starting at the bottom and cutting. In setting priorities, we become directed persons rather than driven persons. This means intentionally focusing on what we prize and admire, and what we hope our children will adopt and emulate as their own. As we prioritize our values, we must also be mindful of our perceptions of value, and recognize that values are not just subjective, but also objective. The existence of objective values makes sense if there is an objective Lawgiver, which is God. This means that values are not just what we think is right or wrong, but also what God has established as right or wrong.

In a pluralistic society, teaching values in public school settings can be challenging. However, one approach is to establish consensus values. Because of God's common grace, available within all people, there are certain values that are universally accepted as good, such as kindness, compassion, and honesty. These values can be taught in public schools, even if they are not necessarily tied to a specific religious or moral framework. By teaching these values, we can help our children develop a sense of what is right and wrong, and encourage them to become people of character.

Ultimately, prioritizing our values involves recognizing that God is the ultimate authority on what is right and wrong. As Psalm 19:7-11 says, "The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are reliable, making wise the simple. Blessed are those who have regard for the Lord's commands, who seek him with all their heart." By prioritizing our values in light of God's Word, we can ensure that we are living a life that reflects His values, and that our children will grow up to be people of character and integrity.