There’s a very destructive idea circulating out in the world that says that parents should allow their children to find their own way spiritually. Even many “religious” people have bought into this evil idea and have stopped instructing their children about spiritual matters at home. We, as Yahweh’s people, must whole-heartedly reject this new philosophy and take our calling to teach our children seriously! In Proverbs 22:6, we find, “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Notice that the Bible does not say, “Let your children decide for themselves how they want to worship.”
Not teaching our children is like setting a boat out to sea without a rudder. If children don’t have a spiritual anchor they will end up adrift in a toxic society that can destroy them in many ways. Having a personal relationship with Yahweh is the key to spiritual survival. The earlier you teach your children the better. Research shows that it becomes more difficult to shape your children’s thinking the older they get. But it really is never to late to start. The following ideas can help.
1. Pray and read the Bible together.
2. Set the right example. Your actions speak louder than words. Children easily recognize hypocritical behavior.
3. Talk about Yahweh to your children constantly in every situation. While taking a walk, you can mention Yahweh’s lovely creation. Or during conflict, you can ask your children how Yahweh would want them to behave. Always guide every conversion toward Yahweh.
4. Create fun Sabbath Day memories. Sing joyful songs together or have special treats ready to be enjoyed just on Sabbath.
“How blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of Yahweh. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart. They also do no unrighteousness; They walk in his ways. You have ordained Your precepts, that we should keep them diligently. Oh that my ways may be established to keep Your statutes! Then I shall not be ashamed when I look upon all Your commandments. I shall give thanks to You with uprightness of heart, when I learn Your righteous judgments.” (Psalm 119:1- 7)