Raising Kids Who Love the Lord: Encouraging Spiritual Growth
Parenting is one of life’s greatest callings and challenges. As Christian parents, our deepest desire is to raise children who love the Lord and live out their faith. But in a world full of distractions and competing values, how can we nurture their spiritual growth?
Let’s explore a biblical and practical approach to encouraging a love for God in our children.
The Gap Between Desire and Reality
Many parents feel the tension between their vision of raising godly children and the reality of their family’s daily life. Perhaps you’ve wondered:
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How do I teach my kids about God when life feels so busy?
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Am I doing enough to cultivate their spiritual growth?
The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 22:6 (KJV): “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” While this is a promise of hope, it’s also a call to action. The gap between desire and reality can be bridged by intentional steps rooted in Scripture.
You’re Not Alone
Imagine this: A mom named Sarah is juggling work, school pick-ups, and countless to-dos. She’s committed to her faith but struggles to find time for family devotions. One night, her 8-year-old asks, “Why do we pray?” Sarah’s heart sinks as she realizes they’ve fallen out of the habit of praying together.
If you’ve felt this way, take heart. We’ve all been there. God’s grace meets us where we are. Philippians 4:13 (KJV) reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Biblical Principles for Spiritual Growth
Spiritual growth starts with intentional habits. Here are three principles, grounded in Scripture, to encourage your child’s love for the Lord:
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Model Faith Children learn more from what we do than what we say. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (KJV) says, “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”
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Create Rhythms of Worship Set aside regular time for family prayer, Bible reading, and worship. Psalm 119:11 (KJV) says, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
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Encourage Questions Let your children ask about God and faith. Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) teaches us to “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
A Case Study of Success
A powerful example of raising children in faith comes from Susanna Wesley, the mother of John and Charles Wesley, founders of the Methodist movement. Susanna prioritized spiritual training in her large family of 19 children, dedicating intentional time to nurture their faith.
Susanna implemented daily routines, such as personal prayer with each child and family Bible reading. She also modeled a deep faith through her own commitment to God, spending time in prayer and Scripture herself. These practices deeply influenced John and Charles, who went on to become leaders in sharing the Gospel worldwide.
Their lives were a testament to Proverbs 22:6 (KJV): “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” The Wesley brothers’ impact on Christian history highlights the fruit of a mother’s dedication to spiritual training.
Studies* show that consistent family spiritual practices—such as prayer and Bible study—foster a strong sense of faith in children that carries into adulthood. Galatians 6:9 (KJV) reminds us, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Susanna Wesley’s legacy encourages us to persist in these efforts, trusting God for the results.
Practical Steps to Get Started
Here are simple steps to start bridging the gap today:
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Choose a family memory verse for the week.
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Set aside 10 minutes daily for prayer or Bible reading.
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Plan a family activity that reflects God’s love, like baking cookies for a neighbor.
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Use age-appropriate Bible resources like devotionals or apps to make learning fun.
Take Action Today
Your family’s faith journey begins with one step. Download our free guide, 10 Daily Habits for Raising Kids Who Love the Lord and implement one habit this week. Let’s grow together!
Key Takeaways
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Raising children who love the Lord requires intentionality and grace.
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Model faith, create rhythms of worship, and encourage curiosity.
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Small, consistent steps lead to lasting spiritual growth.
Closing Scripture
“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” – 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)
Studies*
The Power of Prayer for Families
Nurturing the Faith of Children and the Family: Insights from Research
