When it comes to getting our children’s attention, the Bible has a lot of competition these days.
You’ll remember that in Jesus’ well-known parable of the sower, some of the seed “fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants” (Matthew 13:7). The weeds overwhelmed and suffocated the good seed.
Likewise, 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 nurture that seed so it takes root and grows.
How can we, as Christian parents, help bring the Bible to life for our kids so that they grow to love it and hunger for it?
God Himself gives a great answer to that question. In Deuteronomy 6, when the Lord called for His people to love Him, He said, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” (verses 6-7).
Notice the two parts to God’s response: “First, put My Word in your heart. And second, be intentional about weaving My Word into the ordinary and everyday fabric of your children’s lives.”
Here, we find two powerful principles that can help inspire our children toward a love for the Bible.
Have a Contagious Enthusiasm for God’s Word
Children are super perceptive. Our passion for God’s Word—or lack of it—speaks volumes to them. If we don’t have great enthusiasm for the Bible, why should they?
As parents, we’re role models. How active is our own engagement in the Bible? Are we excited about it? Can our kids see the fruit of our interaction with God and His Word?
Before we expect our children to love the Bible, we need to look at the example we’re setting. And it’s only when we take care of this first that the next principle will gain any traction in their lives.
Be Intentional About Impressing God’s Truth Upon Your Kids
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 home, outside the home, when we go to bed, when we rise.
Who is to do the impressing? The parents.
And how? In the ordinary, everyday moments of life.
This speaks of being intentional. It also calls for us to take the initiative to figure out how to make the Bible relevant to our children’s everyday experiences.
A great way to do this is to look at life through your children’s eyes. As they grow up, what do they need help with? What struggles or questions are uppermost in their minds? What are their pain points? What problems do they face that need solutions?
By asking the above questions, you’ll 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?
Are they having difficulty with making good choices?
Are they searching for meaning and affirmation?
Are they wondering how Christianity is different from the religions their friends follow?
Whatever their point of need, find the Bible’s answer. Then figure out a way to work that answer into your interactions with your children and your prayers with them. Open their eyes to the wonderful reality that Bible has answers they can use!
Along the way, remember: It’s okay to take small steps. It’s okay if doing this seems ordinary. It’s okay if it takes time.
Let your passion for the Bible lead the way. Look at life through your kid’s eyes, and recognize their points of need. Then engage with them about how the truths of the Bible can help them.
As you make the most of ordinary opportunities to impress the Bible upon your children, you will enable your kids to see the extraordinary value God’s Word has for their lives!
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101 Awesome Bible Puzzles for Kids, by Steve and Becky Miller, takes middle-grade readers through the Bible one puzzle at a time, from Genesis to Revelation. Through codes, mazes, word searches, and other engaging activities, kids will expand their Bible knowledge and learn how they can apply its wisdom to their own lives. These 101 puzzles are perfect for road trips, rainy days, and relaxing quiet time alike as kids dive deep into God’s awesome love for them!
Learn more about the book and how to purchase here.
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