As a Christian parent, it’s not always easy to know the best way to answer your children’s questions and respond to their actions from a biblical perspective. If you’re like me, you can hesitate and wonder- should I bring God into this conversation? Sometimes we have great intentions on bringing God into our daily conversations with our kids, we simply just don’t know how to do this practically.
You are not alone. I’m glad that you have a willingness to do this, and together we can encourage and help each other along! Let me first start off by saying that it is an absolute acceptable answer to say, “I don’t know.” One of the biggest obstacles I find that keeps Moms from bringing God into the conversations is that they are afraid their kids will ask them something they do not know the answer to. If this happens, simply say, “Hmm, I don’t know.” Mama, that is okay!
From there, go look up the answer together, find a trusted Mom friend, or ask a Pastor. If this is you, I’d encourage you to push back the fear of not knowing.
Alrighty, are you ready to go through some of Mom’s most pressing questions? Me too! These are the ones I receive most often …
How should I respond when my child expresses doubts about god?
The first step to responding in this situation is to listen to them and show them love. Let your children know that you understand their doubts and give them permission to explore those tough questions. Be willing to discuss the hard topics with grace, patience, and understanding. Encourage your child to learn more about their faith and what they believe in order keep building their relationship with God.
I understand this can be an emotional experience, and your Mom heart probably wants to demand that they believe simply because its true! We ultimately want to raise children that decide to follow the Lord for themselves. We want them to be permitted to explore and ask the hard questions when they are young so that the faith truly is their own.
We have to admit that while our heart goes in overdrive and stirs with fear when our children begin to question, sometimes we act on our emotions rather than act is actually happening. A lot of what we may see as doubting may actually be age-appropriate discovery. They may just be curious on certain topics, or want more information. They may not be doubting God, they are just inquiring to know more.
Once again Moms, I can’t say this enough, if your child wants to know something that you don’t know, ASK someone! That is okay!
How can I help my children understand that sin is wrong?
One way to help your children understand why sin is wrong is to remind them of the implications it has for our relationship with God. Explain that when we sin, we are essentially turning away from God and not following His commands. It’s important to convey that sin is not just an act or a choice; it’s a relational issue that affects our relationship with God. Show your children how their choices can show love and respect for Him rather than disobeying Him.
When we make it about a relationship with God and not simply rules to follow this allows for our children to deepen their desire to do those good things and gives them a purpose and greater identify. This is the groundwork for salvation, rather than teaching them just to “do right because it’s right.”
What stories from the Bible can I use to teach my children values?
When seeking to teach your children values, the Bible is an invaluable resource of truth. There are numerous stories throughout scripture that illustrate topics such as integrity, self-control, generosity, and more. I’d recommend you use parables like the Good Samaritan and memorize verses in Proverbs. Ask your children how they think Jesus would respond in a particular situation and why their response should reflect this behavior. Explain how following God’s commands helps us stay faithful, obedient and loving towards Him.
How can I help my children to remain committed to their faith into adulthood?
Stay tuned, there is a whole chapter on this in my book coming out on Mother’s Day!
Establishing a foundation of faith and personal values in your children that will last into adulthood is the goal. Help to foster and develop their trust in God by having regular family devotions, attending church services together as a family, leading with an example of devotion, and setting aside time for prayer on your own or with your children. Encourage them to take active roles in developing their faith through Bible study, youth group activities and mission trips. Provide positive reinforcement when they follow the faith-based teachings you teach at home. Finally, be available to them when questions arise concerning God’s love and plans for them. There is no guarantee despite our great desire for one, but this is a great way to lay the foundation that will set them up for a faith that lasts.
