As parents, one of our primary responsibilities is to prepare our children to come to the knowledge of Christ and grow in Him. We are our children’s first pastors. In Genesis 18:19, God commended Abraham, saying, “For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just.”
Do your children know the Lord? Have you introduced them to Jesus? Do they have an active relationship with Him? Is your desire for their spiritual growth greater than your desire for their academic excellence or success in other areas of life?
The Whole Armor of God
To raise spiritually strong children, we must equip them with the whole armor of God, as described in Ephesians 6:10-18.
- Belt of Truth: Teach your children that Jesus is the Truth and the Word of God. It is our standard for living as Christians and we must equip ourselves with the knowledge of the truth. Establish a family Bible study routine to help them develop a culture of consistent Scripture study. Teach them to research the scriptures for the truth about every aspect of life for which they seek answer. They need not be confused about the perverted truths and lies that are prevalent in the world, the scripture provides answers to every life’s question. Help them to daily fasten truth on their waist, knowing and speaking the truth always.
- Breastplate of Righteousness: Teach your children about the righteousness of Christ, which has been imputed to us through faith. Remind them of their identity in Christ and their right standing with God.
- Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: Train your children to share their faith with others and exemplify their salvation through peaceful living.
- Shield of Faith: Ground your children in their faith through encounters with God. Teach them to put the Word of God into practice and believe God for their needs.
- Helmet of Salvation: Teach your children to daily work out their salvation with fear and trembling by walking in the liberty of Christ.
- Sword of the Spirit: Teach your children to practice confessing God’s Word daily, not from head knowledge but from conviction of the heart.
- Prayer: Teach your children to pray and add fasting to their spiritual discipline. This empowers them to access God and engage effectively in the face of challenges.
A Clarion Call to Parents
As we approach 2025, let us prepare ourselves and our children to be fully armored in Him. The whole armor must be in place. We are at war; let us get to work and not be caught napping. Do your part and leave the rest to Abba.
God bless you!
