Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
FAMILY -PLACE OF FAITH FORMATION
Genesis 2: 18-25
v18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.”
Family is the oldest institution of this world. In Genesis 2: 18-15, we read about God establishing first family in the garden of Eden. A child hears about God first in his/her family. That is where his/her faith instructions start, not just through the words, but through the actions of family members. The most important responsibility of a Christian parent is to bring up their children in their faith. If the parents don’t have true faith, they cannot teach their children to have faith in God.
First step in building up faith in our children, we need to evaluate ourselves and confirm our faith and trust in God. We don’t just talk about our faith to our children, they need to see us living our faith. We need to have a culture of faith in our homes. All our dealings must reflect our faith. Bible is the guide for a Christian. All scriptures are written with the inspiration and guidance from God. We must study the Word of God and use the biblical principles in our daily dealings.
Have daily family prayer and read Bible together. Discuss the lessons read and answer any questions children have. We should encourage them to ask questions. Parents should be available to answer any questions and doubts children have regarding their faith. When family faces problems and difficulties, we pray together and seek guidance from God to resolve our problems. When Children see our trust in God to resolve our problems, they learn to trust God.
If we start teaching our children to walk in faith when they are very young, they will continue to have their strong faith when they grow up. Proverb 22:6 says, “Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray”.
May God through his Holy Spirit help us to train our children to live by faith.
PRAYER
Heavenly father and the lover of our souls,empower us to put our trust in you completely.When our eyes wander from you focus our gaze on your immense power.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A family that prays together stays together.
Aney Raju
Mar Thoma Church Staten island.
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church