Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2).

Life in Holland provided the religious freedom the Pilgrims were looking for, but at a high price.  Living conditions there were rough, to the point where they had to work brutal hours to survive.  Children as young as six years old were working twelve- to fourteen-hour days just to help make ends meet.  (Feel free to emphasize the above point to your kids, especially if they complain about chores.)  Parents began to fear for the health of their children as the hard labor took its toll.

Life among the Dutch was taking other tolls, as well.  Language, customs, traditions—all were different from what the Pilgrims were used to.  Parents could see their children growing less English, and more Dutch, with each passing day.  The greatest concern was over the moral “freedom” that accompanied Holland’s religious liberty.  Parents feared that they may have saved their children from persecution only to lose them to licentiousness.  They made the decision to protect themselves and their children by taking them to a new world.

Chew on this: How are you being polluted by the world?  What are you willing to do to “be transformed?”