“Start children off on the way they should go,
and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.”
-Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
In today’s secular world, parents face numerous challenges when it comes to raising children with a strong faith foundation. The influence of secular values, cultural norms, and the prevalence of technology can pose significant obstacles.
However, as Christian parents, we have the power to guide our children and equip them with the knowledge and principles they need to navigate the secular world while staying rooted in their faith.
Here are three essentials to raising godly children in a secular world:
1. Teach Biblical Truths:
Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s worldview. Teach your children the Word of God and help them understand biblical principles that guide their choices and actions. Model these truths in your own life, because, with kids, more is caught than taught. Create a home environment where prayer, the Bible, and worship are valued and encouraged.
2. Foster Your Relationship with God:
As a pastor, I’ve seen it happen so many times when a parent is worried about their child falling away from the faith. And yet they themselves are not walking closely with the Lord.
It’s hypocritical to expect our kids to be committed Christians if we aren’t.
Grow in your own faith. Read the Bible, pray for and with your kids. Don’t fall into the “do as I say, not as I do” trap when it comes to raising your children. Live your faith our loud. You’ll plant more seeds in their lives by modeling the Christian walk than anything else.
3. Engage in Open and Honest Conversations:
In the world around us, children will inevitably encounter conflicting beliefs and values. Create a safe and open space for your children to ask questions, express doubts, and discuss challenging topics.
Encourage critical thinking and guide them in discerning truth regarding worldly perspectives. Equip them with biblical answers while showing love and respect for those who hold different views.
Two Questions:
1. How can I actively incorporate the Bible into our daily routines and activities as a family?
2. How can I effectively communicate the relevance and truth of the gospel to my children in a way that resonates with their age and stage of development?
Raising godly children in a secular world requires intentional effort and unwavering commitment. By teaching and modeling biblical truths, fostering a personal relationship with God, and engaging in open conversations, parents can equip their children to navigate the challenges of the secular world while remaining grounded in their faith. Remember, as we faithfully guide our children, we trust in God’s promise that when they are older, they will not turn from the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6).