When my daughter described a problem she was having in school, I immediately wondered how I could fix the issue for her. But then another thought occurred. Maybe God had allowed the problem so she could see Him at work and get to know Him better.
Instead of running to the rescue, I decided to pray with her. The trouble cleared up without any help from me!
This situation showed my little one that God cares for her, that He listens when she prays, and that He answers prayers.
God Cares About Your Family
The Bible says there’s something significant about learning these lessons early in life. If we “start children off on the way they should go, . . . when they are old they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
God pays attention to—and deeply cares about—the dealings of the family.
While most of the Old Testament tells the story of the nation of Israel, the book of Proverbs has a sharper focus—that of the family. The opening, chapters 1 through 9, suggests it’s a book of life lessons from a father figure to his son or young disciple, and, throughout, the book concerns itself with everyday people and their spheres at home with family, at work, and in relationship with their local community.
In the book of Proverbs, we discover God pays attention to—and deeply cares about—the dealings of the family.
When we start kids off with an awareness of God and His power, we are giving them a place to return to if they wander and a foundation for spiritual growth throughout their lives.
Fostering Your Child’s Faith
Perhaps, you can consider how you might foster faith in your child in your everyday conversations and routines. You could point out God’s design in nature, tell a story about how He has helped you, or invite your little one to thank God with you when things go right.
God can work through you to tell of His goodness throughout all generations.
God, thank You for the blessing of my children. You treat every child as precious and want them to know Your Son as their Lord and Saviour. Help me to guide my little ones toward You in everyday, ordinary ways, so that they may grow in their awareness and understanding of You.
Grant me opportunities to share your gospel of grace and truth with them, so that they may put their faith in You and live for You all their days. In Jesus’ name, amen.
