We teach our children from the moment they are born: how to tie their shoes, brush their teeth, share with others, and say “please” and “thank you.” As they grow, we add new lessons: how to study, manage friendships, handle disappointment, and maybe even how to cook or ride a bike. These are all important skills for life.
But if we teach our children everything except how to connect life with God, we risk raising them to believe that faith is separate from everyday living. And when that happens, Christianity becomes just a part of Sunday, something that feels far from their daily emotions, decisions, and struggles.
“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” (Deuteronomy 6:6–7)
God’s Word was never meant to be compartmentalised. It’s meant to shape all of life.
Life Without the Gospel Makes No Sense
I used to think being good and doing my best was enough. But life showed me otherwise. I failed. I fell short. I carried guilt and fear I didn’t know how to fix. It was only when I truly understood the gospel, the good news that Jesus died for my sins and rose again to give me new life, that everything changed.
Through the gospel, I realised I didn’t need to earn God’s love, because Jesus had already paid the price for my sins. He forgave me, gave me a new identity, and filled my heart with peace.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Because of what Jesus has done, I now live with purpose and hope. And because the gospel has changed my life, I want my children to know that it can change everything they face too.
Everyday Conversations That Point to God
Our children don’t always come to us with big questions about God. But everyday moments often give us opportunities to speak gospel truth.
When your preschooler spills juice and starts crying, instead of getting upset, you can choose to say, “It’s okay. We all make mistakes, and Jesus still loves you. Let’s clean it up and try again.” They’re learning more than how to clean—they’re learning about mercy and grace.
When your eight-year-old feels nervous about a school presentation, you remind them, “Jesus is with you. He gives us courage when we’re afraid. Let’s ask Him to help you be brave.” They begin to see that courage isn’t about being strong, but about leaning on Jesus who is.
When your twelve-year-old is hurt after being left out by friends, you comfort them, “That really hurts. Jesus was left out too; He understands. And He promises He will never leave you.” In the pain, they learn that they are not alone, and that Jesus walks with the broken-hearted.
When your fifteen-year-old says, “I’m not sure I believe everything in the Bible,” you respond, “Thank you for being honest. I’ve had questions too. Can I share how God has been real to me?” Your honesty and humility show that faith isn't about having all the right answers, but about walking with a faithful God.
These are Spirit-filled seeds, gently planted in the soil of everyday life.
Start Small, Keep Going
You don’t need to be eloquent. You just need to be available. Start with small steps, and God will multiply the fruit.
In the car: “Look at those clouds! God made such a beautiful sky!”
At dinner: “Let’s thank God for taking care of us today.”
After school: “What’s something that reminded you of God’s kindness?”
At bedtime: “Even while you sleep, God is watching over you.”
When we talk about God throughout the day, we teach our children that He is present: not just in church, but in the car, the classroom, the playground, and the dinner table.
Don’t Be Too Busy to See God’s Faithfulness
In the rush of life—work, chores, school runs—it’s easy to miss the fingerprints of God in your own story. But if you don’t see His hand, you won’t be able to point your children to it.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
Take time to reflect. Notice the ways God has cared for you. Thank Him in front of your children. Let them see you marvel at His goodness.
Your children won’t be under your roof forever. Use this time well. Don’t miss the chance to show them that God is real, and His love is steady.
Encouragement for the Journey
You may feel like you’re late to this, or unequipped. But remember that God is with you too. Start with what you know. Open the Bible. Pray with your children. Share what Jesus has done in your life.
You may not be able to teach algebra or correct every mistake. But you can do this: walk with your child as you walk with Jesus. That is your greatest calling.
So, start small and keep going. Trust God. The gospel has changed your life and it can change your child’s too.
The Greatest Joy—and Our Deepest Hope
One of the most satisfying moments as a parent is when your child comes to truly know and trust Jesus, and when their faith becomes their own. When they pray, not because you reminded them, but because they know God listens. When they stand firm in truth, not just repeating your words, but holding convictions they’ve made their own. There is no greater joy than hearing your child say, “I believe in Jesus. I want to follow Him.”
But what if they don’t?
What if they grow up hearing the gospel, watching your example, and still choose another path?
This is where our calling as Christian parents presses most deeply into faith. We must remember: we are not the Saviour—Jesus is. Our job is to plant seeds, water them with love and prayer, and trust the Lord of the harvest with the growth.
“So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” (1 Corinthians 3:7)
Keep loving them. Keep praying. Keep living out your faith sincerely and openly. And keep hoping. God is not in a hurry, and He is never done working.
So, press on and trust God. And whether your children walk closely with Jesus now or not yet, rest in knowing that He loves them more than you ever could, and He is still writing their story.
