How can we teach our children to follow God's "commands" from Deuteronomy 11:1? Our Anchor Verse “You shall therefore love the LORD your God and always keep His charge, statutes, ordinances, and commandments.” — Deuteronomy 11:1 The Heart Behind Obedience • God links love and obedience. Children learn that rules flow from relationship, not mere duty (John 14:15). • Our own joy in the Lord is contagious; when they see genuine delight, obedience seems worthwhile. Living Examples: Parents as First Teachers • Children notice consistency: the same honesty at home, church, and work. • Quick repentance when we fail models humility (1 John 1:9). • Celebrate answered prayer and providence so they trace commands back to a faithful God. Teaching in Everyday Moments Deuteronomy 6:6-7 urges us to “teach them diligently… when you sit at home… walk along the road… lie down… get up.” Practical ideas: • Mealtimes: share one way you saw God’s Word lived out that day. • Drives & walks: point to creation (Psalm 19:1) and discuss the Creator’s wisdom. • Bedtime: read a short passage; let them hear Scripture last. • Mornings: speak a blessing or verse as they head out. Using Scripture Creatively • Memorize together—make verses into songs, hand motions, or drawings (Psalm 119:11). • Post key commands on fridge, mirrors, or phone lock screens. • Act out Bible stories; younger children learn kinesthetically. Guarding Against Distractions • Limit media that undermines biblical values (Psalm 101:3). • Encourage friendships that reinforce obedience (Proverbs 13:20). • Keep Sunday gatherings a priority (Hebrews 10:24-25). Encouraging Accountability and Grace • Set clear household standards based on Scripture; review them regularly. • Use discipline that corrects and restores, not merely punishes (Hebrews 12:10-11). • Remind them often of Christ’s finished work; obedience is response, not earning (Ephesians 2:8-10). Practical Steps This Week 1. Choose one command of God to highlight (e.g., kindness, honesty). Share its Bible basis. 2. Memorize Deuteronomy 11:1 together—recite before meals. 3. Replace one entertainment slot with a family worship time. 4. Model service: involve children in helping a neighbor or church project (Galatians 5:13). 5. End each day thanking God for one way He helped each person obey. Scripture Reinforcements • Psalm 78:4-7—passing God’s works to the next generation. • Proverbs 22:6—training a child in the way he should go. • Ephesians 6:4—bringing children up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. • 2 Timothy 3:15—from infancy knowing the sacred Scriptures. Teaching children to follow God’s commands begins with our own love for Him, flows through everyday life, and is sustained by consistent, grace-filled application of His Word. |
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