How Can Kids Own Their Faith?
It can be easy for parents to feel the full weight of their children receiving salvation Christ offers. Daley reminds us we can let go of that burden, and give our kids opportunities to own their faith and enjoy the Holy Spirit working in their lives.
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Deuteronomy 4:9
According to USA Today, “7 in 10 Protestants ages 18 to 30 who went to church regularly in high school said they quit attending by age 23.” This means that about 1 in 4 “churched” kids leave the church by the age of 23. I can only imagine the weight of responsibility you feel as a parent. Teaching your kids everything from manners and respect, to thankfulness, chores, ABC’s, math, the value of relationships… the never ending list goes on.
As a Christian, if you teach your kids anything, the good news about Jesus is at the top of that list! The Holy Spirit does the saving work. Parents have the freedom to say, “Jesus, this child is yours. Have your way.”
How can we teach and allow our children to practice being responsible for and owning their own faith?
- Model your faith for your kids. Live it out. Give your kids a front seat row to watch as you actively pursue Jesus. Whether reading your Bible, praying, or serving in your local church, let your kids know that this is the center of your life. Talk to them about faith, about scripture, and point them back to Jesus daily.
- Share your faith story with your children, and encourage them to do the same. Sit down and share with your children the story of how God brought you to faith in Jesus. That conversation could be a game changer! (Rev. 12:11) Encourage your children to share what Jesus has done in their life with their friends.
- Let ‘em try it! Ask intentional questions to give your kids opportunities to articulate what they believe and why. Don’t give them all the answers all the time; empower them to be able to have their own faith. You might even learn from them in the process! : )
- Set them up for opportunities to serve. Connect them with people where they can serve and give their life away to others. Maybe this is at a local food bank, on a mission trip, through your church, or simply helping a neighbor.
- Pray and invite others to join in the process. Pray daily for your kids, and invite other godly men and women to speak into their life. Pray for your kids to put their trust in Christ, and for the Holy Spirit to do a work in their heart to draw your child to Himself.
Camper Corner: Play hide and seek with God today! Jeremiah 29:13 says, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” God is not far from us. He is close! Today, ask God to know Him more and to be more aware of His presence today.
