Admiration vs Inspiration

Understanding the difference between admiration and inspiration.

When it comes to your kids' spiritual growth, it's important to help them distinguish between admiration and inspiration. Admiration for someone can be a wonderful thing. We may respect a person for the depth of their character or even stand in awe of their achievements. But admiration has its limitations. The core meaning of the word suggests that we regard someone "with wonder," or that we "marvel at them." The implication is that we may look up to someone, but we feel the quality we so admire in them is unattainable for us. An individual like Mother Teresa or Ghandi, for example, may fill you with wonder, but their actions seem beyond what the rest of us are capable of achieving. That's why there aren't more people just like them.

Inspiration, on the other hand, is when a person's life influences you in such a way that you're motivated toaction. That's an important difference. Inspiration helps you to believe that if someone else could do it, so can you. Help your kids find role models who inspire them—whether they be modern day leaders, historical figures or heroes of the faith from Scripture. As the writer of Hebrews admonishes, "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith" (Hebrews 13:7).


I believe this is true for al of us, no matter  what our age, we can look to those who inspire us to help propel us forward into ALL that God has for us!


"For more ways to strengthen your kids' spiritual growth, visit FocusOnTheFamily.com." 
"Article from Focus on the Family blog 10-23-12"