WT 002: How Do I Help Grow My Child's Faith?
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Moments with God | 365 Devotions Purchase Now
Today we are discussing a topic that all Christian moms have on their mind: How Do I Help Grow My Child's Faith?
Question: “Did you do anything to influence your children spiritually on a regular basis? Ex: was Sunday church a non-negotiable? Did you do quiet time in front of them? Did you pray?"
Karen's answer: My children were typical children. When they were young they didn't mind going to church, but as they got older different ones pushed back at different times. When we had trouble getting our kids to go to youth groups or having quiet times, Greg and I had to be creative in how we guided them towards a relationship with the Lord. Ultimately, it's the Holy Spirit that will grow our children's faith.
A book that really helped me when my children were growing up was Grace Walk by Steve McVey. It helped me realize that my children's walk with God is personal and I as a mom cannot “make” my child have a relationship with God.
Question: “What is the most important thing I can do to point my daughter's heart towards God? We pray together, read scripture and talk about God often, but she is 5 years old and tells me that she doesn't ever 'really think about him'.”
Karen's answer It sounds like you are doing the right things! Keep doing what you are doing and allow God to draw her to him in His timing.
When we think of a relationship with God it has eternal significance and therefore weighs heavy on a mom’s heart. This is one area we want to get right.
What we can do is pray for our children, and pray that God will pursue them and they will be receptive to His voice. Pray each day for your child and their salvation, and each day, ask God to show you how to love your child the way He loves your child.
Question: “How do I encourage my children to engage in the world, but also guard their hearts and minds from all of the negative images, words and messages in the world?”
Karen's answer: I think as moms, one of our biggest jobs is protector of our children, especially when they are young. We keep a safe home, they ride in car seats, protection from germs, etc., but we also have to think about their little hearts.
In Proverbs 4:23 Solomon says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” I found myself always being on the lookout for things that would damage my child’s heart. But, of course we live in a broken world, we can't protect our children from everything.
Philippians 4:8 says: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” I used this verse a lot in what I allowed and didn’t allow in our home. It is always different with each child too.
Moms, we know your time is precious. Thank for spending it with us! If you have a question about motherhood I want to hear it, so make sure you visit birdsonawiremoms.com/askkaren and tune in each week to see if we cover your question.
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Thank you moms, have a great day!