by: Russell McLaughlin

Children Finding and Keeping Faith

     Elders and ministers everywhere are concerned about the dropout rate of our young people—and rightly so. It is precious to see children excited about Bible study and worship, but many grow cold in their teenage years. Studies show that by graduation, 55–75% leave the church. Why?

     Several congregations studied the issue and asked: Do we need more youth programs, rallies, or teachers? Their findings were striking:

• Where both parents were faithful and involved in the work of the church, 93% of the children remained faithful.

• Where only one parent was faithful, 73% stayed faithful.

• Where both parents were only “reasonably faithful,” 53% continued.

• But where both parents attended infrequently or not at all, only 6% remained faithful.      

     Will Our Children find faith and go to Heaven? As parents, we cannot make our children believe or go to heaven, but we can certainly increase their chances. We need to nurture them and bring them up in Christ!

     We are commanded to teach them. Paul says, “Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Deuteronomy 6 reminds us to impress God’s Word on our children daily. As Romans 10:17 declares, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Our children need the truth of Scripture.

     Parents must not only talk the talk but also walk the walk. Children catch far more than they are taught—they absorb our attitudes, actions, and spirit. We need to be devoted disciples ( Luke 9:23, 14:25-33). Experts say it’s not what you know or say or the techniques you have that makes the most difference in your kids’ spirituality. It is who you are and whose you are.  If you’re a disciple of Jesus, that’s what will truly impact them for Christ.

     May we bless our children with information and demonstration as we nurture them in the Lord.