Guiding Children: Strong Guides for Every Child’s LifeSample

BIBLE engagement 

Scripture is a major influencer in a child’s life. Scripture commands us to “study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do” (Joshua 1:8 NLT).

According to a recent LifeWay study, the number 1 (out of 40) most likely predictor of spiritual health for a child is that they regularly read the Bible. 

Our recent research with Barna found that of all the spiritually-rich activities families do together on a weekly basis, Christian parents ranked talking about what they’ve read in the Bible as the activity they do the least.

There are great print and digital tools available to access and engage in Scripture, but there’s nothing that can replace the valuable discussions that kids have with their parents about what they are reading and learning from God’s Word. 

Brian Cheney, Promiseland Director at Willow Creek Community Church, recommends that we not start the conversation with “How often do you read your Bible?” because kids slip into assignment mode. Instead, we must whet their appetite for Scripture and cultivate their love for it. When adults say something like, “Here’s what I’m learning about God and why I continue to read Scripture,” it makes a big impression. They’re modeling lifelong, humble learning. These kinds of conversations help kids grasp why they need to read the Bible regularly. Then they’ll say, “There’s a God who loves me. I want to understand that more.” 

While the Holy Spirit is responsible to do His work in our children’s lives, it is our job to  be a role model, daily demonstrating the Christian life and commitment to spiritual disciplines. Having regular discussions that teach them the Word of God and how to apply it to their everyday lives is essential and powerful.