Page 96 - Family Life Student Textbook

Job regularly practised praying and sacrificing for his children. He prayed for their spiritual growth, their
obedience to God’s commands, and His will and mission for them. This should be our regular practice as
well.

Make a practice of praying for your children in private so that you can talk to God about their individual
needs and ask for his wisdom in being the best parent possible for them. But also, pray for them in their
presence, so that they will experience your love and care for them and your concern for their spiritual
needs. Let them hear you pray blessings upon them. This will have a great positive impact on their lives.

Spiritual Training

Communicate the gospel of Jesus Christ to them early and often. Studies show that 85% of children who
hear and understand the gospel before the age of 14, will put their faith in Jesus Christ. During this time of
their life they are open to believe in what Jesus Christ did for them without great hindrances. After the age
of 14, the percentage drops way down. Adults develop more hindrances and objections to placing their faith
in Jesus Christ.

Also, children who are capable of rebelling against the commands of God and their parents, are actively
sinning. I personally believe that they can and need to place their faith in Jesus Christ in order to be given
the gift of eternal life. The Bible does not specify a certain age after which the child will go to hell if they
have not yet believed in Jesus Christ for eternal life. And there are varying opinions on the correct answer to
this question. I (Lonnie) personally put my faith in Jesus Christ at the age of 3. I am confident, based upon
the promises of God's word, that had I died anytime after that point I would have gone to heaven.

This is the most important topic a parent can discuss with their children. Above all else, we want them to go
to heaven. While we cannot make the decision for them, we can clearly and regularly help them understand
God's offer for their Salvation. And small children are very capable of putting their faith in Jesus Christ. They
trust very easily. They trust you as parents to provide for them, to protect them, and to teach them the
truth.

Mark 10:14 “When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘Let the little children
come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as
these.’”

I imagine that Jesus is indignant with some parents who are not concerned enough with the souls of their
small children to communicate the clear gospel message to them.

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