I enjoyed watching my boys grow in their Christian faith. As they became older, it was up to them to develop their relationship with God and make it their own. But when they were young, it was Jean’s and my role as their parents to nurture their spirituality.
Parents are blessed to be influenced by youth leaders and Sunday school teachers, but, ultimately, teaching and modeling faith is up to Mom and Dad (as well as Grandma, Grandpa and other close family members).
Parents are the first and primary sphere of influence in a child’s life, aiming to guide their children in the ways of the Lord so that His Word becomes imprinted on their hearts and minds.
How do we do that?
I discussed that question with author Janel Breitenstein on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. She says that just as there are milestones a child achieves in their physical development, there are milestones to their spiritual development as well.
She outlines the following spiritual life skills:
- Prayer
- Meditation
- Studying God’s Word
- Confession and Repentance
- Adoration
- Self-Control
- Respecting Authority
- Simplicity
- Community
- Service
- Resilience
Janel Breitenstein has some great ideas for imparting spiritual life skills to your children. Hear our full conversation on your local radio station, online, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, via Google Podcasts, or listen on our free phone app.
Janel’s book Permanent Markers: Spiritual Life Skills to Write on Your Kids’ Hearts is available for a gift of any amount. Click here for more information or give us a call at 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
