Melissa talks with Amy Gannett and Laura Wifler about how to parent in a way that passes on the Christian faith.
They talk about the atmosphere in their own homes growing up and the importance of passing on—in addition to knowledge—a delight in the things of God. They encourage moms who might feel awkward talking to their kids about their own faith, and they share some favorite resources they’ve used with their children.
Resources Mentioned:
Barna study on church attendance in childhood
First Catechism
Teaching Theology to Children (Melissa’s thoughts on teaching the catechism)
Slugs and Bugs, Sing the Bible
Tiny Theologians
Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God by Marty Machowski
Dispatches from the Front
Related Resources:
Parenting with Hope in an Anxious Age
A Theological Vision for Discipling the Next Generation
Redeem the Drive Time: Audio Resources for Families
The Good News Family Devotional by Mike and Melissa Kruger
Discussion Questions:
1. When you think back on your own childhood or spiritual upbringing, what particular people did God use to shape your faith?
2. In busy seasons of life, what tends to crowd out intentional spiritual conversations in the home?
3. What are some realistic ways families can pursue spiritual rhythms without feeling pressured to do everything perfectly?
4. How has parenting, or investing in the next generation, revealed your own need for dependence on the Lord?
5. How can admitting our failures actually strengthen our witness to those we shepherd?
6. Whether or not you have children of your own, how might God be calling you to invest in the next generation spiritually?
The Gospel Coalition