Last updated on September 24, 2020
Question:
I wanted to ask about video games. There was this video game that I wanted and through a fairly long amount of events I ended up getting it. But my problem is I did not ask my parents if I could get it and am starting to feel kind of bad about it. But I have played it and don’t think they would mind, but if they do find out they would be madder that I got it without asking than about the content of the game, I believe. I am a Christian.
I am sorry if this is the wrong type of question to ask but I did not see anything like it on your site, so I wanted to know and you seemed like a reliable source.
Answer:
I assume that you acquired the game with your own funds. But I’m also gathering that there is something about this particular game that you thought your parents would object to, so you didn’t mention it to them.
Your parents have a duty to make sure you reach adulthood as a strong Christian. To do that they desire to protect you from temptations which they feel may be stronger than you can handle. At the same time, they need to prepare you for the time when they won’t be there to advise you. That means allowing you to make some decisions that may not always be the best. It is a hard balance for most parents to achieve.
Since it appears that it is a rule in your home that you consult with your parents before purchasing a game, you need to tell them for the simple reason that this is their home and you are living there. “Mom, I got a video game the other day that I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t find objectionable. I’m sorry that I didn’t ask you first, but I don’t want to hide it from you either.”
“A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke” (Proverbs 13:1).