Show Me Your Ways, Lord
Bible Verse
Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow. (CEV) Proverbs 3:6
A child’s life has never been as carefree as adults tend to think. Today, our children face challenges and choices, some life-changing. The apostle Paul reminds us though in Romans 8:38-39 that nothing can separate us from God’s love! Showing our kids God’s faithfulness in their life will help them with those challenges and choices.
Read scripture together
God sent his one and only Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem and save the lost (John 3:16). This is a beautiful reminder that we can trust in God’s love and the hope he gives to us. Read the stories of the Bible with your children, and introduce them to the theme of God’s big story, his rescue plan for us through Jesus Christ.
Tell stories together
God is not only with us, but he actively supports us (Isaiah 41:10). Sometimes we might feel that our choices could make God walk away from us. Scripture doesn’t say that. In fact, all of scripture, from the Garden of Eden to the return of Christ, declares the grace of God and that he won’t turn his back on us.
Talk to your children about God’s commitment to us. Share your own personal and family stories of God's faithfulness, moments when you experienced God’s presence, power, and blessings. Seek out church mentors who can share their stories so your children can see God’s faithfulness across a whole community of believers. Encourage them to look for ways God came through for them in their own lives.
Pray together
God wants to hear our cares and concerns. “Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). When we pray, God listens. So pray with your child and help them to pray on their own. Pray about important decisions and the wisdom needed in those moments. Pray with your kids concerning things you are thankful for and things you need. Your child learns not only by repetition but by you modeling it as well. So never stop praying (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Want to dig deeper? Check out Family Fire's article Who is Directing Your Life?
Kelly VanderWoude
Kelly is the husband of Michelle and father of Lukkas and Taylor. He
enjoys making sawdust (and the occasional wood-product), smoking and
curing meats, and spending time with his family. He is the pastor of
Immanuel CRC in Fort Collins, CO and is the author of "The Honesty of
the Psalms: Wrestling with the Word of God in a broken world.
