by Karen Wolff
Where
is that instruction manual on raising kids? You know, the one the
hospital gives you just before you leave with your new baby? Well, you
can dream, can't you?
What do you suppose an instruction manual would look like? Can't you
just see it? It would contain some great categories like, "How to Stop
the Whining", and "How to Get Your Kids to Listen When You Talk".
Unfortunately, Christian parents face just as many obstacles as
non-Christians in raising kids. AND when you add all the worldly
distractions, Christian parenting becomes more than a challenge.
A huge part of that challenge is passing on your faith to kids whose
priorities are more focused on video games, sporting events, and the
latest trends in clothes. But the good news is that there are things
you can do to raise Godly kids and even share your faith with them.
First, you must live out your Faith in your own life. It is
impossible to give away something you don't have. Kids can spot a phony
from a mile away. They're looking for the real deal from their parents.
Living your faith can start with simple things, like showing love,
kindness, and generosity. If your kids see you finding ways to "be a
blessing", it will become a natural and normal way of life for them
too.
Second, start sharing your faith early in the lives of your
kids. Being a part of an active Christian church shows your kids that
you think spending time with God is important. Make it a point to let
them hear you talking about the great things happening in the church.
Let them hear how much you've been helped by being in the midst of
people with similar beliefs who pray for you and you for them.
Third, show your kids what's in it for them. This is probably
one of the most difficult things for alot of parents. Many people were
brought up to believe that faith was some kind of obligation you
fulfilled by attending church on Sunday. And let's face it, kids today
aren't interested in obligations unless there is some kind of payout at
the end.
Here are some GREAT payouts:
- When you give your life to Christ, you secure your place in heaven. What kid do you know that doesn't want something they don't have to earn, but rather is given to them as a gift?
- When God enters your life, you receive unconditional love. What a concept for a young person ... someone who will love and accept them as they are with no strings attached.
- Being a Christian means freedom. As you develop your
relationship with Christ, you can be free from worry and anxiety,
addictions, and so many other problems that seem to plague young
people. When you do things God's way, you receive the benefits of that
relationship.
- Having God's favor on your life is like unwrapping a gift every single day.
God's favor is an amazing blessing that makes people want to be good to
you for no apparent reason. What young person wouldn't want God's
blessings in their life?
Of course, it wouldn't be fair to tell your kids about the payouts and
not tell them about the responsibilities that come from Christian
living. Here are some of those:
- Put God first. This means making the commitment to seek God.
This isn't an easy concept for kids. There's alot of competition for
first place in the life of a young person. But helping them understand
that God wants them to be happy and successful more than they
do....what a great thing for a young person to hear.
You can help the process by encouraging your kids to spend time
with God reading the Word, and make sure they understand the importance
of choosing Christian friends that share the same values.
- Find ways to be a blessing. Many kids are very self
centered. The concept of "being a blessing" means taking the focus off
them and onto someone else. This is best learned if they can see you
living it. Include them in the process when you can. You'll be amazed
at how good your kids will feel about themselves.
- Act right ON PURPOSE. This means treating people with
kindness, respect, and patience....even parents, brothers and sisters.
Right behavior is Christianity in action.
Sharing your faith doesn't have to be complicated. Start by living it
in your own life so your kids can see it in action. Demonstrate your
commitment and the value you place in an ongoing relationship with God
by finding ways to be a blessing. Kids learn best by example and
modeling your faith is the best example they will ever see.
For more help on this topic, go to A GREAT Christian Parenting Resource
About the author:
Karen Wolff is the founder of www.christian-books-for-women.com,
a place where women will find info, tips, and help with issues like
overcoming fear, jealousy, and building self esteem. Find book reviews,
recommendations, and submit your favorite books so you can be a
blessing to someone else.
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