What steps can parents take to bring their children to Jesus today? Setting the Scene “Now they were bringing even their babies to Jesus to have Him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them.” (Luke 18:15) Jesus welcomed parents who literally carried their little ones into His arms. That simple picture lays out practical steps for us today. Intentionally Bring Them to Jesus • Choose to make Christ the center of family life, not an occasional weekend add-on (Matthew 6:33). • See parenting as stewardship: God has entrusted these children to you for His purposes (Psalm 127:3). Model Authentic Faith • Let your children catch you loving Jesus—reading Scripture, worshiping, repenting quickly (1 Corinthians 11:1). • Share testimonies of answered prayer and God’s faithfulness; kids remember stories. Teach God’s Word Diligently • “These words I command you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Read, memorize, and discuss Scripture at the breakfast table, in the car, before bed. • Use simple, literal explanations; children embrace truth readily (2 Timothy 3:14-15). Prioritize Prayer • Pray with and over your children daily—thanking, confessing, interceding (Philippians 4:6). • Invite them to voice their own prayers; celebrate every answer, big or small. Integrate Worship in Family Life • Sing hymns or worship songs together (Colossians 3:16). • Watch for everyday moments to praise God—the sunrise, a good grade, a healed scrape. Guard Their Influences • Monitor entertainment, friendships, and online content (Psalm 101:3). • Fill their minds with what is true, honorable, pure, lovely, commendable (Philippians 4:8). Serve Together • Let kids join you in acts of kindness—visiting shut-ins, preparing meals, giving toys (Acts 20:35). • Service cements truth in young hearts better than lectures alone. Stay Planted in the Church • Regular, joyful participation in a Bible-teaching congregation reinforces home discipleship (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Encourage relationships with godly mentors—Sunday School teachers, youth leaders, grandparents (Titus 2:2-6). Speak Blessing and Identity • Jesus “touched” and blessed the children (Mark 10:16). Lay a hand on your child’s shoulder; speak life from Scripture over them (Numbers 6:24-26). • Remind them whose they are in Christ—chosen, loved, and called (Ephesians 1:4-5). Trust Jesus to Receive Them • The disciples tried to hinder, but Jesus welcomed. Ignore cultural voices that belittle childlike faith; keep bringing your kids to Him (Luke 18:16). • Rest in His promise: “Whoever comes to Me I will never drive away” (John 6:37). |
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