When it comes to our children’s attention, the Bible nowadays has a lot of competition.
You will remember that in Jesus’ known parable of the sower, part of the seed “fell under thorns, who grew up and choked the plants” (Matthew 13: 7). The weeds overwhelmed and stifled the good seed.
Similarly, our children are surrounded by endless distractions and messages that make it a challenge to plant the good seed of God’s truth in their hearts – and to cherish that seed so that the root and grows.
How can we as Christian parents help bring the Bible to life for our children, so that they grow and hung it?
God himself gives a great answer to that question. In Deuteronomy 6, when the Lord called on his people to love him, he said: “These commandments that I give you today are to be in your heart. Use your children. Talk about it when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you go up” (verses 6-7).
Note the two parts on God’s answer: “First put my word in your heart. And secondly, deliberately be about weaving my word in the ordinary and daily fabric of your children’s life.”
Here we find two powerful principles that can help our children inspire in the direction of a love for the Bible.
Have a contagious enthusiasm for God’s Word
Children are very remarkable. Our passion for God’s Word – or the lack of it – speaks volumes for them. If we don’t have much enthusiasm for the Bible, why would they?
As parents we are role models. How active is our own involvement with the Bible? Are we enthusiastic about it? Can our children see the fruit of our interaction with God and His Word?
Before we expect our children to keep the Bible, we must look at the example we set. And it is only when we first ensure that the next principle will get every traction in their lives.
Be intentional about making God’s truth on your children
In Deuteronomy 6: 7, when God calls us to impress his truth on our children, he keeps things surprisingly simple: talk about his truths in the house, outside the house, when we go to bed when we get up.
Who should do it impressive? The parents.
And how? In the ordinary, daily moments of life.
This speaks about being intentional. It also calls us to take the initiative to find out how we can make the Bible relevant for the daily experiences of our children.
A great way to do this is to look at life through your children’s eyes. What do they need help when they grow up? What struggles or questions are the top in their minds? What are their pain points? With what problems are they confronted with solutions?
By asking the above questions, you will discover ways to help your children realize how much the Bible can help them – how useful it is.
Are they struggling with loneliness or friendship issues?
Do they have trouble making good choices?
Are they looking for meaning and confirmation?
Does she wonder how Christianity is different from the religions that their friends follow?
Whatever their point of need is looking for the Bible’s answer. Then look for a way to work that answer in your interactions with your children and your prayers with them. Open their eyes to the wonderful reality that Bible has answers that they can use!
Remember on the way: it’s okay to take small steps. It’s okay if this just seems just. It’s okay if it takes time.
Let your passion for the Bible lead the way. Look at life through the eyes of your child and recognize their emergency points. Then contact them how the truths of the Bible can help them.
While you make the most out of ordinary possibilities to impress the Bible on your children, you enable your children to see the extraordinary value that God’s Word has for their lives!
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101 Great Bible puzzles for childrenBy Steve and Becky Miller, readers of middle grade takes one puzzle at the same time through the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. Through codes, mazes, word search assignments and other fascinating activities, children will expand their Bible knowledge and learn how to apply his wisdom to their own lives. These 101 puzzles are perfect for road trips, rainy days and relaxing quiet time while children dive deep into God’s great love for them!
Read more about the book and how you can buy here.