4 Ways to Encourage Your Child in Their Faith

4 Ways to Encourage Your Child in Their Faith

It used to be that we could feel pretty safe about the influences in our children’s lives until they hit college age and were exposed to more diverse beliefs and cultures. 

It seems, however, that radical views are coming into play as early as 3rd grade. And, by middle school, many church-going children have decided they do not believe in God. 

Some religions are more evident in how they contradict Scripture; but, many religions have an element of truth, making them seem feasible and dangerous. These differences may even make more sense from a human standpoint. So, how can you help them tell what is true and what is counterfeit?

Here are four ways we can encourage our children in to help them stay true to their faith:

 

Study the Word

Cultural norms, fads, and new aged religious philosophies change every day. The Word of God is never-changing and is an anchor for our faith. Encourage them to check everything they see, hear, and read against it, and if it isn’t supported in Scripture, then don’t give it any space to take root in their heart and life. 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 

 “Every scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.”

 

I love what the Apostle Paul told the church in Corinth in his second letter to them. He said, We demolish arguments and “every arrogant obstacle that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to make it obey Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

 

Pray for Wisdom

Encourage them to ask God to help them understand and apply Scripture to the situation and know how to give an answer delivered with grace so the hearer will see Jesus in them. 

James 1:5

“But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him.”

 

Seek Fellowship

Look for a group of like believers to hang out with at school. There are usually some religious clubs to join; or, at the very least, a few other Christians that would be willing to get together. If there is a faith-based group, help them determine when these groups meet and check their doctrine. Having an accountability group is a great way to stay on track with their faith and challenge growth toward maturity in Christ.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

“Two people are better than one,

because they can reap more benefit from their labor.

For if they fall, one will help his companion up,

but pity the person who falls down and has no one to help him up. 

Furthermore, if two lie down together, they can keep each other warm, but how can one person keep warm by himself?

Although an assailant may overpower one person,

two can withstand him.

Moreover, a three-stranded cord is not quickly broken.”

 

Explore the Differences

Help them explore different beliefs and religions. If they can learn in the safety of home and church where the Bible can be used to solidify their faith, they will be stronger for it and ready to stand true in their beliefs. 

1 Peter 3:15

“But set Christ apart as Lord in your hearts and always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope you possess.”

 

Being challenged in what we believe is the best way to help us grow. We just need to make sure stepping out doesn’t mean stepping away from their faith.

Colossians 2:4

“…I say this so that no one will deceive you through arguments that sound reasonable.”

 

Relatable Verses: Deuteronomy 6:6-7, Proverbs 22:6, Isaiah 54:13, 3 John 1:4

Relatable Songs to Listen for on WalkFM:

Walk by Faith — Jeremy Camp

Even If — Mercy Me

Faith — Jordan Feliz

Different — Micah Tyler

The Blessing — Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes

 


Susan E. Greenwood is a wife, a mother, and a mother-in-law :D. She has over 28 years experience in youth and children’s ministries. Susan loves to write blogs, articles, devotionals, and curriculum. She has blogged for bible.org, and authors Mary Demuth, Lynn Cowell and Ruth Schwenk. Susan writes regularly for skitguys.com. Her passion is to help people live their Life In Stride with the Word of God.

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