In what ways can we prioritize children in our family spiritual practices? Let the Children Come: Jesus’ Invitation “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14) Jesus sets the priority: children are welcome, valued, and central to His kingdom. When our homes echo that welcome, we align our family life with His heart. Everyday Moments to Teach Faith Deuteronomy 6:6-7 gives a practical blueprint: • Talk about Scripture “when you sit at home… walk along the road… lie down… get up.” • Use car rides, mealtimes, bedtime, and morning routines to read a verse, retell a Bible story, or share how you saw God’s kindness that day. Psalm 78:4 reminds us not to hide God’s works from the next generation. Tell answered-prayer stories, celebrate God’s providence, and let children hear testimonies from grandparents and church friends. Family Worship that Engages Young Hearts • Short, consistent gatherings—ten minutes with a song, a brief passage, and a simple takeaway—often bear more fruit than infrequent, long sessions. • Rotate leadership: let children read a verse, choose a worship song, or illustrate the story. • Use props, pictures, or hand motions for narratives (e.g., building a paper boat for Noah, acting out David and Goliath). Proverbs 22:6 assures us that early training shapes lifelong paths. Prayer Practices that Include Little Voices • Popcorn prayers: each family member offers a one-sentence thank-you or request. • Prayer jar: children draw slips of paper with names or needs; everyone prays aloud. • Blessing at bedtime: lay a hand on each child and speak Numbers 6:24-26 or a paraphrase of Ephesians 3:17-19. Ephesians 6:4 directs fathers to raise children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord,” and prayer is foundational to that instruction. Modeling and Mentoring through Example • Let children witness you reading the Bible, repenting, forgiving, and serving. • Invite them to join in age-appropriate chores tied to faith—making a meal for a new mom, writing a card to someone ill. 2 Timothy 3:15 highlights Timothy’s exposure to Scripture “from infancy,” linked to his mother and grandmother’s sincere faith (2 Timothy 1:5). Celebrating Spiritual Milestones • First Bible, first communion, baptism, mission trip—make each a family celebration. • Frame certificates, share photos, tell the backstory of God’s work in the child’s life. • Mark smaller steps too: finishing a Gospel, memorizing Psalm 23, volunteering for the first time. Guarding Little Souls • Screen media and friendships; Jesus warns, “Whoever causes one of these little ones… to stumble” (Mark 9:42). • Establish clear boundaries for content and conduct, explaining the biblical reasons. • Create an atmosphere where questions are safe and Scripture is the standard for answers. Serving Side-by-Side • Choose ministries where children can participate: packing food boxes, greeting at church, neighborhood cleanup. • Emphasize that even small hands can do kingdom work (Matthew 18:5). • Afterward, debrief: “How did you see Jesus today?” or “Whom did we serve like He would?” Trusting the Promise Psalm 127:3 calls children “a heritage from the LORD.” As we welcome, teach, pray, model, celebrate, guard, and serve with them, we trust God’s promise that His word “will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:11). The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these—and, by grace, so will the future of our families. |
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