Christian Parenting
Our world is a dangerous place, where stories of terrorism and child abductions dominate the news, and many young people try out premarital sex, alcohol and drugs. It's enough to frighten any parent. There are things you can do to protect your children and help them shine God's light into the darkness around them.
Teach them to know and love God's Word. Help them understand that the Bible contains absolute truth that applies to everyone, and that God wants them to use it as their guidebook for life. Read and discuss it together on a regular basis, making a specific commitment of time in your schedule. Use a translation that's easy for your children to understand. Point out how the verses you read are illustrated in your daily lives.
Help them develop relationships with other faithful young people. This will give them an invaluable network of encouragement, support, and accountability. Make sure they participate in an excellent youth group.
Pray for them and with them often. Share with them regularly how God has answered prayers, so they will start to notice His answers and expect Him to answer when they pray. Help them understand the reality of evil and the need to fight it through
Christian Parenting 2
prayer and action as spiritual battles rage in their lives. Show them the extraordinary power of prayer.
Help them discover God's love for them. Emphasize how much God loves them. Even the youngest children can grasp this concept. Tell them that God's relationship with them is based on love, and that He longs for them to love Him back. Point out examples of gifts God has given them, for which you are thankful. As you read Bible stories and celebrate holidays like Christmas and Easter, focus on how God has put His l ...