Helping children read the Bible …
Parents sometimes ask me, “How can we help our children read the Bible?” This is a great question. It recognizes that one of the most important things we can do for our children is help them meet with God and learn His ways. And more, when children get into the Word, they develop a biblical worldview that informs and directs their beliefs and actions.
What follows are three essential things my wife and I did to help our children get into the Word:
Be seen reading the Bible yourself.
More is caught than taught. When our children were younger, it was evident we were reading the Bible because it was in book form. In the morning or evening, or some other time during the day, our children would see one of us sitting in a chair or lying on a couch with a Bible in hand. Now, I mainly read the Scriptures on my tablet or laptop, so what I may be reading or doing isn’t evident. That’s why we recommend using a hard copy if you have younger children (ours are adults).
Read the Bible with your children.
A joy shared is a joy doubled. One of the greatest gifts you can give your children is a love for God’s Word. But it doesn’t happen through osmosis. Children need to hear the Bible read by their Dad or Mom regularly. Why? Because when they hear and chat with you about the Word, they’ll understand why you treasure it and why they, in turn, should likewise value and live by it.
Capitalize on teachable moments.
You can use countless unplanned events to connect your children with God’s Word. Bible engagement shouldn’t be compartmentalized – it should be part and parcel of what we say, do and experience daily. So, a difficult day at school becomes an opportunity to read about how God cares for us. Or to see a beautiful flower sparks a conversation about the wonder of creation and a time of reflection in Genesis 1. And, when your children are older, the teachable moments include theological discussions (informed and rooted in the Word) on all subjects, musings, ethics, philosophies, moral dilemmas, perspectives, and such.
We did many other basic things to help our children get into the Word. But, most importantly, we also prayed – trusting God to stir up a desire and love for His Word in their hearts and minds. And He did. And now they are adults, with their children, and have not departed from it (cf. Proverbs 22:6).
Helping children read the Bible. What are you doing? Please share in the comments.
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Summary
Parents can help their children read the Bible by modelling Bible reading themselves, ensuring that their children see them engaged with the Word regularly. Reading the Bible together is also essential, as it helps children understand its value and fosters a love for God’s Word. Capitalizing on teachable moments throughout daily life, like discussing biblical principles during everyday events, connects children with God’s Word meaningfully. Ultimately, prayer plays a vital role in nurturing a child’s desire and love for the Bible, guiding them as they grow in their faith.
© Scripture Union Canada
