Even grade school children are under pressure to be popular, and to think, talk and act as modern culture dictates. Some pervasive attitudes may include that we as parents want to prevent them from having fun and that they should concentrate on getting all the pleasure they can get today and there’s no need to worry about tomorrow.
To counteract this influence, parents should begin to share the Scriptures with their children as soon as they are able to grasp it. Because each child is unique, the challenge is to determine how to capture the child’s interest and relate God’s way of life to their own personal circumstances.
It may be helpful to list the interests and talents of each child and link them to biblical figures with similar talents and proclivities, showing from the Bible how God was able to influence their lives. For example, King David was an accomplished musician, Solomon studied animals and nature and some of Christ’s disciples were fishermen.
Focus on important biblical teachings they can not only use throughout their lives, but also relate to their current experiences. Examples would include stories from the life of Jesus Christ, practical applications of the Ten Commandments and lessons from the heroes of the Bible.
After you have decided what basic subjects you need to cover consider how to present them in a user-friendly way, keeping in mind the lessons should be presented in manageable portions, which may mean covering a certain topic over several sessions. Make a point of highlighting that many biblical figures were called to serve God at a very young age and encourage your children to picture themselves as potential servants of God.
Identifying other helpful sources for material such as a conservative Bible commentary or even an Internet research can also help to spark interest. Don’t forget to provide a good “working” Bible in which they can write or mark scriptures. A version such as the International Children’s Bible or New Century Version is good for younger children, with the New King James translation more suitable for older children.
Try to establish a regular time to study the Bible with your children, and be sure to begin each study session with a brief prayer asking for God’s help in understanding His Word. A special drink or snack can add to the impression that this a pleasant time and it’s a privilege to be able to study God’s Word together.
It’s important your children also hear about your own personal spiritual walk with God. Don’t be reluctant or hesitant to share your own “testimony.” Children are very influenced by the example and experiences of their parents.
