Run Against the Current: Raising Godly Families in Today’s Culture

In a world constantly pulling families toward distraction, compromise, and confusion, Pastor Sheila Craft delivered a heartfelt and powerful Mother’s Day message reminding us that God has called us to do something different:

Run against the current.

This special Mother’s Day service at Elevate Life Church in Frisco, TX encouraged moms, dads, grandparents, and families to stay anchored in God’s truth—even when culture is moving the opposite direction.

 

What Does It Mean to Run Against the Current?

Pastor Sheila opened with the church’s theme scripture for 2026:

“Run to win.” — 1 Corinthians 9:24 

She explained that this verse isn’t about competing against others—it’s about living a life of:

  • Purpose
  • Obedience
  • Endurance

It’s about finishing the race God has called you to run.

And in today’s culture, that often means choosing conviction over convenience.

 

Motherhood Is More Than a Title — It’s a Calling

One of the most touching moments of the message was Pastor Sheila honoring every kind of mother in the room:

  • Moms raising young children
  • Single moms
  • Women grieving the loss of their mothers
  • Women longing to become mothers
  • Grandmothers helping lead future generations

Her reminder was simple but powerful:

God sees you right where you are.

 

The Currents Families Face Today

Pastor Sheila described modern culture as a powerful current constantly trying to shape our children and families.

Some of those currents include:

 

Comparison Culture

Culture tells moms to compare themselves to everyone else.

But Pastor Sheila reminded us:

  • Your children don’t need another mom
  • They need you

Instead of comparing, allow other strong moms to inspire you.

 

Busyness & Distraction

Packed schedules can make us feel productive while quietly disconnecting us from our families.

Pastor Sheila challenged parents to:

  • Slow down
  • Be present
  • Protect family rhythms

Because sometimes the greatest gift you can give your child is simply your attention.

 

Moral Compromise

One of the strongest moments in the message came when Pastor Sheila encouraged families not to compromise biblical convictions simply because culture normalizes something.

She reminded parents:
“What you allow in small things shapes big outcomes.” 

 

Digital Overload

Screens are discipling children faster than many parents realize.

Pastor Sheila urged parents to:

  • Set boundaries
  • Monitor influences
  • Prioritize conversations over screens

Because if parents don’t shape identity, culture will.

 

Identity Must Be Rooted in God

In a culture constantly redefining identity, Pastor Sheila spoke boldly about teaching children who they are in Christ.

She explained:

  • Identity isn’t based on feelings
  • Identity isn’t based on trends
  • Identity is rooted in God’s truth

And she reminded parents that culture constantly pushes self-centered thinking while Scripture points us toward glorifying God. 

 

Don’t Raise “Sunday Christians”

Another major challenge from the message was directed toward watered-down faith.

Pastor Sheila encouraged parents to model faith daily—not just attend church weekly.

Practical ways included:

  • Speaking declarations over children
  • Reading Scripture together
  • Praying consistently as a family
  • Teaching biblical values intentionally

Because church alone cannot disciple children.

Parents must lead spiritually at home. 

 

The Story of the Midwives Who Changed History

One of the most powerful biblical examples in the message came from Exodus 1.

Before Moses became a deliverer, two Hebrew midwives—Shiphrah and Puah—made courageous decisions to fear God instead of culture.

When Pharaoh ordered Hebrew baby boys to be killed, they refused.

Why?

Because:
They were anchored in God before pressure came.

Pastor Sheila reminded us that these seemingly “obscure” women helped preserve an entire generation.

And in the same way:

  • Parents today are protecting future leaders
  • Future worshipers
  • Future world changers

 

You’re Not Just Raising Children — You’re Guarding a Calling

One of the strongest lines from the message was this:

“You’re not just raising a child—you’re guarding a calling.”

That perspective changes everything.

Every prayer matters.
Every conversation matters.
Every correction matters.

 

Running Against the Current Isn’t Easy — But It’s Worth It

Pastor Sheila acknowledged that standing firm as parents can sometimes feel lonely or unpopular.

But she encouraged families not to fear culture, trends, or public opinion.

Instead:

  • Fear God
  • Stand for truth
  • Stay anchored

Because the goal isn’t perfect parenting.

The goal is faithful parenting.

 

Stay Anchored in a Shifting Culture

Pastor Sheila closed the message with a powerful visual of waves crashing against a rock.

The waves never stopped.

But the rock remained anchored.

That’s the picture God wants for our families:

  • Stable
  • Grounded
  • Unshaken by culture

 

Looking for a Church Home in Frisco, TX?

At Elevate Life Church, we believe strong families build strong futures. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, single mom, or spiritually searching, there’s a place for you here.

Plan Your Visit
About Us
Kids Ministry
Small Groups

Other Messages in this Series

The Pillar of Motherhood with Pastor Sheila Craft of Elevate Life Church in Frisco, Texas

The Pillar of Motherhood | Sheila Craft

Scroll to Top
Schedule Change

Easter Egg Hunt moved to Sunday at 1PM

Due to the weather for Saturday morning, our Easter celebration has moved to Sunday. The car show, inflatables, and food trucks are postponed to a future date.