What godly principles are you teaching children?

Will they be able to stand under pressure and stay strong during the storms?

In Daniel 1 we learn about Daniel. He was taken captive from his country and brought into a new culture. Daniel stood under pressure and opposition. The Babylonian king assigned royal food and wine. Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the food and wine from the king. The Bible doesn’t tell us who his parents are, but most likely they had taught and instilled in Daniel godly principles. This should challenge us to teach children godly principles not only in church, but also in the home.

In this foreign land, Daniel could have faded in with the crowd or kept his beliefs silent. He chose to go against the flow. Are you showing children by your example and teaching them to take a stand for God by letting people know you are a Christian with your words and actions? We need to take a stand for God even when it will cause us hardships or if it’s not popular.

How can we teach children to take a stand for God? here are a few ways:

• Children need to know what God’s word says. Bible stories are important and have their place, but we need to dig into the Bible and learn from godly men and women who stood strong for God and His commands.

• Be an example. Live for God in all you do. Be honest and trustworthy. Share with others about God and what He has done for you. Show respect and be kind. Control your tongue. Read God’s word daily. Make prayer and important part of your day.

• Read stories and watch movies of others who stood for God even when it cost them greatly. There are many men and women who put God first and we are enjoying the benefits of the stand they took today. There are places in the world where Christians are persecuted greatly for God. We need to take a stand and thank God for the freedom we have to take that stand.

• Have resolve. Daniel had resolved not to defile himself. If you have resolved not to do or do something, you will be stronger going into tough situations. It’s easier to give in without resolve to do right.

Children can take a stand for God!

Teach them the godly principles they need to stand for what is right each day.

Need more help teaching preschool age or young children? My Building Blocks 4 Life curriculum will help you teach godly principles using hands on activities. Building Blocks 4 Life gives you stories and step by step instructions for your family devotions, Sunday school or church class, school, VBS, and more.

What is a mentor? One definition could be: a trusted person who influences others. The world needs Godly mentors. Children need someone that they can trust to influence and guide them through the distractions of this world.

Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. Philippians 3:17 (NIV)

You can be a mentor!

How can you be a mentor?

• Live your life as an example of Christ.

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 (NIV)

You are being watched. What you say and do makes an impact on others. Stay positive and strive to follow the example Christ Jesus gave us.

• Reach out

Everyone needs someone to value and appreciate them. Don’t wait for opportunities to come your way. Reach out and help others. Do activities they enjoy with them.

• Be a friend

Start conversations and listen to what others have to say. Be patient and listen with your heart. Value what they have to say.

• Don’t judge

And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother’s eye. Luke 6:41-42 (NKJV)

Offer advice without being pushy. Share scripture that can help them.

• Nurture, encourage, and inspire.

Believe in others. Help them to see God has a special plan for their lives. Encourage them to reach for the dreams God has for them.

How To Lead A Child To Christ

Pray

Pray for opportunities and teachable moments. Ask God to work in each child’s heart.

Let God work

Do not shove or push a child into making a decision for salvation. God’s gift is a free gift that they must accept on their own.

Show and explain what the Bible says

• All have sinned. We are all sinners because we do naughty things.

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” – Romans 3:23

• Jesus never did anything wrong. He must punish sin.

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” – Romans 6:23

• We cannot go to heaven by being good.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”  – Ephesians 2:8-9

• Jesus showed his love for us. He died on the cross, was buried, and rose again.

“While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16

“Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried and rose again the third day according to the scriptures:” – I Corinthians 15:3,4

Salvation Steps

Explain that for Jesus to wash away their sins they must:

• Tell Jesus they do naughty things and that they are a sinner.
• Believe that Jesus died and rose again to wash away their sin.
• Ask Jesus to wash away their naughty sins.

Accept

If the child is ready and understands, pray with them.

Grow

Have the child tell their parents or guardians about their decision for salvation.

• Encourage the child to listen to Bible stories daily, pray, tell others about Jesus, and attend church regularly.
• Follow up with the adults to be sure that everything is understood and answer any questions they may have.

* The verses listed are from the KJV.