Doreen Wennberg
Blog

Lead by Example

Finding time to share your faith with your kids can seem like a chore, but it does not have to be. You might even wonder if it matters for young children to learn about God.

Look at what the Bible has to say:

“Teach these things to your children and to their children” (Deut. 4:9b NIV).

“You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit…walk…lie down… and when you rise” (Deut. 6:7 NIV).

These are clear commands to both parents and grandparents.

Let your children see you reading in your book bible. They won’t know it is a bible if it is on your phone, and it will look like you are endlessly scrolling.

Read and discuss bible stories

Read to your children from a children’s bible. Give children coloring pages with bible characters, and talk about the bible story while they color. Reinforce the story by rereading that bible story at bed time. Make a list of the bible characters that you know. Look up their stories and find them in your child’s bible. Include at least one bible story at bedtime besides the other books you read.

The Bible gives many examples of family conflict. The story of Joseph’s mistreatment by his older brothers is one such example. Even young children can understand that Joseph’s brothers were mean, lied to their father, and were wrong to hurt him. (Genesis 37).

Besides giving examples of what not to do, look for stories that teach the right thing; for example, the good Samaritan who helped the injured man (Luke 10:25-37 NLT).

Prayer                                                                                                

Children will often copy what they see, both the good and the bad. When you seek to lead as you follow Christ’s example— you are modeling your dependence on him. (1Corinthians 11:1 NIV).

Let children see and hear you pray out loud. Pray short, simple prayers—no need for fancy words.

What are you thankful for, tell God.

“God, thank you for giving us this beautiful day.”

When you need help, tell God.

“Jesus, we’re late! Please help me find my car keys.”

When your child gets hurt. Don’t just kiss the boo-boo. Apply the band-aids and ask Jesus to help them feel better. 

Meals and bedtime prayers are usually a given, but they should not be the only time we pray. Prayer for little things throughout the day teaches our children to look to God. And by the way, if prayers are not a given, start. Just say we are starting something new and lead the way.

Praise Songs

Do your children like to sing and dance? Praise and worship are our expressions of honoring God. We can teach children to worship God while teaching them about his attributes; God is Holy. God is Love.

The kid’s version of Holy, holy, holy, and Jesus loves me are enjoyed by many children and teach important truths.

Start a playlist of children’s worship songs and sing along together at home and in the car.

Regular Church Attendance                                                                                

There are many different reasons people of all ages, but especially young families, are not attending church. Church worship is essential to children and adults’ growth in faith. A place of worship is vital for any Christian family. We are not meant to do life alone but in community. People with a church family find great comfort in joining with praying believers and like-minded people. Men and women need believing friends. And as Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron.”

A church that meets both parents needs can be hard to find. It can also be difficult for young families to get out the door. Start somewhere, and aim for consistency. Try a few different churches and ask God to lead you. Pray that God will help you find a bible believing, Christ-centered church and help you get there regularly. Like anything with small children, planning is the key. Church reinforces everything you are teaching at home. Children look forward to Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. These can be life-changing!

God,

Thank you for the children you have given to us. We know that you love them even more than we do. Help us to lead by example as we teach our children to know and love you. As we pray, read Bible stories, and sing praise songs, I pray you will help us to build our family relationship with you. Give us a deep desire to know and understand your word for ourselves so that we can equip our children to understand its truths.

 ~In Jesus’ Name, Amen.