Recently I started back to college to work on my Masters degree. Going back to college reminded me, sadly, of the difficulties that some have standing firm as a Christian when they go to college or enter the world for the first time. I have known of several individuals who I thought were strong in the faith prior to leaving the home, only to be drawn away by Satan’s wiles. Young adults are at a very impressionable age in their life, and they must be firmly grounded and prepared to overcome temptation and remain firm in the faith.
Preparing children to enter the “real world,” a world where parents are no longer watching directly over them, is a difficult, lifelong task. Here are a few ways you can help prepare your children to remain faithful.
- Teach children from a young age. Give your children the best foundation you can give them in the Lord, starting from the time when they are just young children. I think it is not only important to teach them when they are young, but to continue that teaching as they grow up.
- Be the best example you can be. I have always heard that people watch one’s actions more than they listen to their words. Teach your children how to act by how you act. They will learn a lot through your good or bad example.
- Give them the tools they will need. The tools they will need can be almost anything from a Bible to a concordance to prayer to you. Teach you children how to effectively use the Word of God. Strive to have an open line of communication between you and your child as they leave the home. Harbor an environment where they still feel like they can talk to you about anything and that you will be there to help them through difficult situations.
- Prepare your children for things that they will face. Help them realize that there are evil things in the world and how to overcome the evil things of the world. Teach you children that they must continue to be active in their faith so that they do not fall. In 1st Corinthians 10:12 the Bible states: “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.”
What other ways help prepare children face the real world?
See the related article “Helping Children Overcome Temptation.”