While restoring an old stone wall, the importance of each carefully placed stone becomes clear. Just like these stones, the values we hold form the foundation of our lives, often invisible but crucially supportive. Despite appearing simple and unchanging, these stones and the values they symbolize—are underpinned by our faith in God, providing the stability needed to withstand the tests of time.

It seems like more and more these days, people are quick to call traditional values outdated. You might hear younger folks say their parents or guardians are out of touch or too strict. But this rush to judgment misses something big—the solid wisdom that’s helped families get through tough times for ages. Romans 8 and the steadfast presence of Jesus in our lives. It really makes you think: why are tried-and-true values seen as old hats in our fast-moving world?

Take the wisdom from someone like Solomon, for instance. It's still striking a chord today, reminding us to listen to our elders and choose wisdom over foolishness. This kind of advice from Proverbs isn’t about just sticking to the past; it’s about recognizing truths that stand the test of time, rooted in our enduring relationship with God.

Think about families where faith, sacrifice, and obedience are central. Picture a family gathering for a 50th wedding anniversary, sharing heartfelt stories about how living with faith and humility has brought them real, lasting joy and strength. Sure, to some these might seem like old-school values. Yet, they lay a strong foundation that helps families face challenges with resilience and grace.

These days, it’s pretty common to hear younger people suggesting their elders should not just update their wardrobes but their core values too. Changing up your style can be fun, but tweaking those bedrock beliefs to fit the latest trends? That's tricky and not without its dangers. What keeps us steady when everything else is in flux? Can foundational values really bend with every new trend, or are they meant to be more solid, something that doesn’t waver?

As technology surges forward and societal norms shift quickly, the chances to grow and adapt are huge, but so is the potential for anxiety. FOMO, or the fear of missing out, isn’t just a quirky phrase—it's a real issue that influences both small and big life choices. Even as tech aims to bring us together, it can end up running our lives, pushing genuine connections aside for quick digital interactions.

This leads us to a crucial question: Are we becoming followers of fleeting trends instead of keepers of God’s truth? The enduring message of the cross offers another way, one that goes beyond the short-term fixes of modern life to a deeper, more meaningful existence—one that honours our past but fits right into our lives today.

As we figure out how to navigate these complex times, it's vital to differentiate between what’s fleeting and what lasts. The real challenge isn’t about keeping up with every new trend but staying true to our core beliefs, shaping a life that respects age-old wisdom while staying fresh and relevant. Diving into these thoughts not only helps us handle today’s challenges but also shapes a clearer path for tomorrow.