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And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. ~ Deuteronomy 6:6-7
We know that teaching the Bible to our children is important, right? Here are just a few reasons why this is true:
- The Bible is God-breathed; it is His very word to them.
- It equips them to serve God.
- It instructs them for the challenges of godly living.
- It establishes them firmly in the truth.
- It helps them to know and love our Creator.
However, many families struggle to make regular Bible reading and study a part of their lives. Many times, it's a lack of confidence. Parents may feel like they don't know enough of the Bible to teach it, don't know how to teach it, or just can't seem to find the time.
Do any of those ring true for you? You are not alone! Here are some simple tips for getting you started.
I Don't Know Enough
The truth is, we are all still learning. The depths and riches of the scriptures cannot be exhausted in this lifetime. Whether we are new believers or have known Christ since childhood, we do well to approach the task of teaching scripture to our children with humility.
Instructing our children in God's Word gives us an opportunity to submit together to His authority and the teaching of the Holy Spirit, knowing that He alone has all the answers.
Here are some things that will help you in this area:
- Make sure you are doing your own Bible reading and study.
- Pray for wisdom and guidance in teaching your children the Bible. God will grant it!
- Pray with your children for understanding before you begin reading.
- Find reliable concordances and commentaries to explore questions together.
- Acknowledge that not every question will be answered, but God gives us all we need to know Him intimately and equips us for godly living.
I Don't Know How
There are many resources and tools for teaching your children the Bible. There are videos, curriculum, devotions, studies, music, and more. You can find many of these equipping resources here at Kids in the Word.
However, if you're really stuck and need something to get you started, keep it simple. Find a children's Bible story book or your own full-scripture Bible and begin to read it together. Pray for understanding before you read, and thank God for His Word when you are done. Read a chapter a day at a mealtime, during reading time, or before bed and briefly discuss what you've read.
As you establish a pattern and gain confidence, branch out into trying other tools and resources.
I Don't Have Time
We've already talked about how important it is for us to teach our children the Bible. If you feel like you don't have time for it, remind yourself of how important it is, and make the time anyway. It is as important, if not more so, than leisure, school, and housework. It's as important as food, clothing, and shelter.
Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin. Zechariah 4:10
It doesn't have to be long or complicated! Remember to keep it simple like we discussed above. Start with reading together during a meal or reciting a scripture during your bedtime routine.
Begin small and let it grow. Over time, add new experiences of reading, study, and memorization to your daily life. Soon you will be a family whose days are saturated with the Word of God!
What obstacles do you face in teaching your children God's Word?
