Keep Leading the Little Ones to Jesus
Last week, in our bulletin, I pointed out the responsibility to lead the little ones to Jesus. There are many times Jesus makes reference to the little ones in the gospels. Why? Jesus felt strongly that the disciples must not discourage the children. What can we learn from that? Children need to see Jesus. And, we need to lead them to Him.
How can our children really learn about Jesus? They can learn it through the Bible but it is often more effective if they are taught by someone with a passion for Jesus. Have you ever sat in a class with a boring teacher? Snore, huh? Children learn by seeing Christianity in us. We have to make the Scriptures come alive! Kids can spot a fake! Don't pretend.
Why is it so important that you and I show them Jesus? Can't they just learn it from someone else or one their own? Children must see Jesus in the example of their parents first, or it will be a difficult uphill climb. This is essential in building the faith of a child. You need to set a good example for them. Their eyes must see consistency. Jesus taught this in a similar way in Luke 14:27. The Hebrew writer refers to father Abraham’s example in Hebrews 11. The faith of Abraham was passed on for generations. Your faith is more important than your job (consider Abraham, Daniel, etc.).
Do you have a vision? We need a vision for ourselves, but especially for our children. Romans 8 tells of how we can know God’s vision for His children. I Timothy 2:14 tells us that God wants us to know about that vision. Without vision we will perish!
Are you willing to live that vision in front of your children? They need to see you going to the hospitals, nursing homes, attending church services, etc. Acts 17 tells us that now is the time to be saved and obey God’s will. We need to be aware of opportunities, open doors, and teachable moments.
Are you consistent in your behavior everywhere you go? Children are watching. People in your workplace, donut shop, gas station, etc. know you and God may be placing you around them to teach them. Teach them and don’t worry. Do not fear because God is with you. What is the worst that could happen? Your children need to see your failures and your victories.
If children do not know Jesus they will be lost! How will they know Him without hearing Him? How will they know Him without seeing Him? I know it’s a difficult task, but it's worth the sacrifices you will have to make.
Psalm 127:3 says that children are a heritage, a reward, a blessing! Do you refer to them as a blessing or a frustration when you are with them? They are like arrows in the hand of a warrior. Why not swords? Why arrows? What do arrows do? You cannot fight hand to hand combat with an arrow. However, with an arrow you must pull back, aim, and then let go. As your release your children you can only hope that they hit the target. You are the bow and you have to be focused as much as the children (the arrows). Once you release them they must decide where they will go. Children have to fly away in faith in order to hit their target.
Are we building faith into our kids? Are we encouraging our children? Think on these things. And, have a great week!