Raising Children in Faith and Wonder

In a world where shadows and light collide, Christian parenting is an epic adventure.

I had the pleasure of celebrating our grand-niece's first birthday today. It was a spectacular event with extended family, children's games, amazing food, and even a Mariachi Band. It got me thinking about the challenges of raising a child in today's world. Here are a few thoughts for all the parents doing God's work -- in honor of Amelia.

Raising Children in a World of Faith and Wonder

Christian parenting really is an epic adventure—a sacred quest to raise children who walk boldly in faith, anchored by biblical truth and touched by the supernatural power of God. For those who love the emotional depth of Christian fiction, the thrill of adventure, and the awe of divine encounters, this journey of raising godly children resonates like a story penned by heaven itself. Here’s how to weave faith-building practices, family devotions, and biblical values into your children’s lives, creating a legacy that echoes through eternity.

A Call to Courageous Faith

Christian parenting isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a battle against the world’s clamor, a daring mission to instill values that stand firm against the tides of culture. Like the heroes of The Chronicles of Narnia or This Present Darkness, parents must arm their children with the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:16-17).

~ Living the Story of Faith ~

Your children are watching, their hearts open like empty pages of a book being written. They need to see you live out biblical values—love that sacrifices, forgiveness that heals, and courage that trusts God in the storm. When you kneel in prayer after a hard day or choose kindness over anger, you’re writing a story they’ll carry forever. Share your own faith journey, even the messy chapters, to show them God’s grace is real.

~ Teaching Values Through Adventure ~

Turn biblical lessons into adventures that captivate their imaginations. Tell them how David faced Goliath with nothing but a sling and unshakable trust in God (1 Samuel 17). Act out the story in the backyard, letting them sling “stones” (preferably using something soft like stuffed socks or Nerf balls) at a makeshift giant. Or share how Esther’s bravery saved her people, then ask, “How can you be brave for Jesus today?” These stories plant seeds of courage and conviction, making scripture a living, breathing part of their world.

Family Devotions: Encounters with the Divine

Family devotions are more than a routine—they’re sacred moments where heaven touches earth, where your family steps into God’s presence together. Like a scene from a supernatural tale, these times can spark faith that burns brightly in your children’s hearts.

~ Crafting a Holy Rhythm ~

Set a time each day—perhaps at dusk, when the world quiets—to gather for devotions. Keep it simple but soul-stirring. For little ones, read from The Jesus Storybook Bible, where every story whispers Jesus’ name. For older kids, dive into a passage like Psalm 23, asking, “What does it feel like to walk through a dark valley with God by your side?” Light a candle to symbolize Christ’s presence, creating a moment that feels alive with divine mystery.

~ Inviting the Supernatural ~

Don’t shy away from the miraculous. Share stories of God’s power—how He parted the Red Sea or sent angels to guard Daniel in the lions’ den. Encourage your children to pray boldly, expecting God to move. There’s no better lesson for igniting faith in a child than whispering a prayer for a sick friend and then seeing healing come. Invite the Holy Spirit into your devotions, teaching your kids to listen for His gentle voice.

~ Worship as a Family ~

Music is soul-touching. Either singing together or listening to inspiring music can stir young hearts, while teens might connect with a worship song like “Oceans” by Hillsong. Let them choose a song or lead a prayer, making devotions a shared adventure. These moments weave a tapestry of faith, binding your family’s connection to each other and to God.

Facing the Shadows

Every hero faces trials, and Christian parents are no exception. The world tempts children with fleeting pleasures, and doubts can creep in like shadows. Yet, like a hero in your own novel, you’re equipped to overcome.

~ Battling Cultural Lies ~

The world shouts that happiness lies in self or stuff, but scripture whispers a better story. When your teen scrolls through social media, talk about Philippians 4:8—focusing on what’s true, noble, and pure. Share how Jesus’ love is the only thing that fills the heart’s deepest longing. These conversations are your sword, cutting through deception with truth.

~ Embracing Questions and Doubts ~

When your child asks, “Why does God let bad things happen?” don’t fear. Their questions are a sign of a seeking heart. Listen with empathy, then guide them to resources like The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel or scripture like Romans 8:28, which promises God works all things for good. Share a time when God carried you through doubt, turning their questions into a bridge to deeper faith.

~ Standing Firm in Prayer ~

Prayer is your greatest weapon. If one of your children faces bullying, pray with them together, claiming Psalm 91:11—“He will command his angels concerning you to guard you.” Teach your children to pray with expectancy, knowing God moves in ways seen and unseen.

A Legacy of Eternal Adventure

Raising children with faith is a story of love, sacrifice, and divine wonder—a tale that ripples into eternity. Every prayer, every devotion, every moment you point them to Jesus is a chapter in their spiritual journey. As Proverbs 22:6 declares, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Trust God to write the ending, knowing He’s the Author and Perfecter of their faith (Hebrews 12:2).

So, parents, take heart. You’re not just raising children—you’re raising warriors for Christ, equipped for a grand adventure in His kingdom. An adventure that will far outlast this world.

You can give no greater gift to your child than to grow in them life-sustaining faith!

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