Talking With Your Children About God
One of my greatest passions and desires in my ministry to the children
here at Providence is preparing and equipping teachers and parents to
talk with their children about God. From infancy through preschool and
into elementary, children can begin hearing, understanding and
retaining fundamental truths of the Scriptures. Everything we do in the
preschool we do with a view to that end. Our games, songs, crafts, and
of course stories and memory verses serve to lay a foundation that
highlights the truth and worth of Christ.
As our resources and capabilities increase with the addition of the
third service, deacons and new volunteers, I am able to focus more on
providing resources and materials that aid in facilitating spiritual
discussions between parents and children. Each month a newsletter will
be available with articles, suggestions and activities aimed at
beginning and enhancing a dialogue among families in which parents can
share their faith with their children and their children can ask
questions and better understand what a relationship with the Lord looks
like. On the back of these newsletters there is a calendar with
specific activities to do every day with your child. My prayer is that
parents would pray for, recognize and capitalize on opportunities to
turn everyday conversations into conversations that highlight the
magnificence of Christ.
I realize that talking with your children about Christ may be an
intimidating or confusing task, especially when your child is an infant
or toddler, but even at these early stages of life children are always
learning. Very young children may not comprehend why their parents
attend worship every week, but can begin to notice and understand that
this is a valued time by observing the consistency of this routine and
the attitude of the parent as they prepare for worship. Similarly, a
two or three-year-old may not understand why Jesus would die on the
cross for our sins, but can understand the concepts of doing things
that displease God (sin), needing to be punished for being bad
(justification) and someone else taking a punishment for you
(redemption). So while it may seem overwhelming to share the gospel
with your child, begin small and have faith that the Lord will work in
your heart and the heart of your child. Remember that you are the
greatest picture of Christ your child sees, and as he or she observes
your values, attitudes and passions, they will begin to see and
understand your faith and testimony.
As we work to teach our children about Christ, please know that I
am available with any questions you may have. I would love to meet and
talk about ways to initiate spiritual discussion, possible answers to
confusing questions, etc. Feel free to call, email or stop by anytime.
Praying for you and for your children,
Amanda Shelton
Preschool and Children's Minister
