He answers with a yes, a no, or a wait. Helping them to understand that early helps to build their faith as they seek the Lord for answers in prayer. Allow them to ask any question at any time. Of course, let your answers be age-appropriate, but do not hinder them from coming to you with questions, because that hinders them from coming to the Lord (see Matthew 19:14). Take time to answer their questions and let them know they are good ones. Don’t provoke them to anger by being needlessly harsh or making fun of them for asking simple questions about Jesus. Don’t discourage them; train them and do so lovingly (see Colossians 3:21, Ephesians 6:4). As you train them, utilize prayer and the Bible together. In Deuteronomy 6:4-9, we are told to love the LORD our God with all our heart, soul, and strength and to teach our children to do the same. In Deuteronomy 6:6-8, God also speaks of teaching His Word in every aspect of daily life. We also need to teach our children early that they are to honor and obey us as the parents God gave to them (see Exodus 20:12, Ephesians 6:1). Another aspect they need to be taught is that God disciplines those He loves. We must teach this so that they are not discouraged when it happens (see Proverbs 3:11-12). Read Proverbs 22:6 and remember that this is a principle, not a promise. You can train them right, and they might still mess up for a while. Your faith is taught but not passed down. Their faith is theirs, and they will grow to obedience by what they allow the Lord to do in and through them, not by what you taught or didn’t teach them. Lead them, celebrate their victories, and love them through their failures. Intentionally build their faith.
For more insights and resources on building a legacy by building the faith of your kids and the next generation, browse some of our other resources:
Fathers Who Teach Their Children to Be Wise | Family Worship Can Be Easy | Does Your Family Have a Future? | Be a Mother of Victory and Faith
