Faith Talk

“I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” Matthew 8:10

In the blink of an eye, you will be hugging your children good-bye and sending them off to college, to a first job, or even to start a family of their own. They’ll bring along a few reminders of home on their new adventure—perhaps a favorite pillow or teddy bear. Will they also take a firm understanding of how faith has made a difference in your life?

It’s easy for Christian parents to assume that their beliefs have been successfully passed on to their children. If the kids attend church, participate in church youth activities, and read the Bible occasionally, all appears to be well—and these are certainly good signs. But as my (JCD’s) father once pointed out to me in a letter, “the greatest delusion is to suppose that our children will be devout Christians simply because their parents have been.”

Have you asked your kids lately about what their faith means to them? Have you revealed specifically how Jesus has helped you through times of struggle and doubt? We urge you to talk with your children about Him, to pray for and with them, and to make these special moments a family priority. May I suggest that you do it now, while there is still time?

Before you say good night…

What do you honestly know about your children’s personal faith?

How much time do they spend weekly in God’s Word?

Are you comfortable sharing your beliefs with your kids?

Lord, time rushes by so quickly. It always seems as though there is more to do than we could ever get done. But please, Lord, help us not to take our children’s relationship with You for granted! Help us to take the time—make the time—to speak to them about what matters most for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

• From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
  Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.