Religious leader says parents ‘should not trust the world to teach their children about God’

“Every child is a gift from God. Every child is wonderfully and uniquely designed. And every child is created in the image of God,” Washington pastor Jesse Bradley told Fox News Digital this week as the homecoming season begins for millions of children across the country.

However, “the way we value, protect and love children reveals the spiritual health of a nation,” he added.

The lead pastor of Grace Community Church in Auburn, Washington, and a husband and father, said he is especially concerned about the faith of children in today’s secular and divisive culture.

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Referring to Matthew 19:14, Bradley said, “Jesus said, do not forbid the children to come to Him, for the kingdom of God is theirs.”

The Christian faith leader added, “Jesus died for our sins and conquered the grave, which gives every child peace with God and shalom at home.”

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He said that “parents want to share with their children what is most meaningful and beneficial to them, but passing on the faith can be more difficult than it seems.”

Scientists understand that “Gen Z is an open generation,” he said. “They are very interested in Jesus if someone engages with them in conversations and provides a safe place to process their relationship with God.”

He also said, “God gives parents clear instructions in Deuteronomy 6:4-7: Faith begins in the home. Raising children in the Lord is relational, conversational, and intentional.”

So, “don’t be passive, don’t trust the world to teach your children about God—and don’t expect it all to happen in church.”

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While “many parents take care of their children’s physical, emotional, intellectual and athletic needs, what about their souls?”

He shared four observations that will help parents and family caregivers pass on the faith to their children.

“Doctrine is helpful, but living together is much more important. Children want more than just truth; they want to feel loved.”

To convey this, he said, parents must “listen carefully. Understand. God is the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. There is a ministry of presence and closeness that gives a child a sense of security and connection.”

So “pray together and God will unite your souls.”

Children want to know what their parents believe, “and why you believe too,” Bradley said.

With that in mind, “share with them the reason for the hope you have. Following Jesus is not blind faith—it is based on historical evidence and facts.”

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He said kids notice the action on Sunday mornings — “but they want to see what you’re like when no one is looking. How do you react when you’re frustrated? What about when you’re short on money? What about when someone treats you badly?”

He said that “parents who continually grow in their faith and are lifelong learners inspire the next generation.”

“Children will always look deeper than what you say,” the pastor said.

“They will detect a double life. If you encourage your children to trust Jesus and follow Him, make sure you really do it,” he said.

“If you tell your kids to be honest, make sure you’re honest with your business, your taxes, and your neighbors. If you tell your kids to be generous, make sure you tip big at restaurants and give to people who can never repay you.”

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He also advised that “if you tell your children to speak kind words, make sure you avoid gossip and slander.”

Bradley said, “You don’t have to be perfect, but apologize when you make a bad decision.”

“You can teach your children how to read the Bible and eat spiritually every day,” Bradley said.

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Parents can also do the following, he added:

• Teach children to maintain an attitude of gratitude in every situation

• Teach your children to show hospitality to others instead of expecting them to serve them.

• Teach children how to use their talents to bless and praise others

Bradley said that even in stressful times — especially in stressful times—parents “can teach children to draw close to God, to have an uninhibited presence, and to cast their burdens upon the Lord who cares for them. The most valuable habits of hope that families experience together can become a legacy for parents.”

He encouraged parents to “use your full potential. God will strengthen you and guide you every step of the way.”

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He also said, “And as your children soar with God, continue to set them up for success. We do not possess, coerce, or manipulate our children—but we can be faithful to encourage them in the deepest ways.”

Bradley is the founder of JustChooseHope.org.

Source of original article: Religious leader says parents ‘should not trust the world to teach their children about God’