Matthew 19:13-15 The little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Parents and grandparents have the amazing opportunity to bring their beloved children close to Jesus so that they can learn who he is and connect with him. How can we do this? Such a great question! It must begin with us being close to Jesus! I'd like to suggest we take the time to ask ourselves a couple key questions.
First: how much am I going to God in Bible study and putting his Word into practice? The Bible clears our minds and inspires us to be godly. Need help with my temper? Get into the Bible. Need courage? Go to the Bible. Any issue of character can be addressed with his Word working on me through the Holy Spirit. Deuteronomy 6: 5-9 teaches us to love God with all our heart, soul and strength and to impress his commands on our children in a 24/7 daily way. As I see, feel, hear, and know the Lord, my relationship with God becomes palpable to the children. Children learn what they see in us as we have opportunity to be with them.
The second key question I believe is this: how much am I praying to understand the spiritual needs of my children (and grandchildren) so I can impress the things they need into their hearts? The world is a different place from when we were children, but God has not changed, nor has his Word. What is right before God is the same no matter what the world is saying. How do we engage our children? This requires wisdom from God. We must pray. Certain things are still clear such as teaching them the scriptures and the love God has for them. However, engaging their hearts will take being brave and realizing all that is barging into their lives. We will need to be willing to go there with them to bring God's truth to them. Our own openness and humility will be crucial in this effort.
Jesus says to bring the children to him. He will do the saving work in their lives.
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