We may never fully appreciate here and now how much Bible study will strengthen our family. We may not see the full impact of a mother reading a Bible story to her children, or a father leading a family devotional, while on this side of eternity. But there can be no doubt that these have a tremendous and lasting impact on the spiritual lives of those within our families.
But, while the importance of these things is not in doubt, it is not the first thing that God emphasized. When it comes to teaching our children to love God, something is even more important. Listen to Moses: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart …” (Deuteronomy 6:4-6). Don’t miss the phrase – “shall be in thine heart.” Parents must teach their children; but first, parents must live by what God says. You will never teach effectively what you are not living faithfully.
This passage in Deuteronomy goes on to tell parents to maximize every opportunity to fill their children’s minds with the word of God. When you are sitting around the house, when you are going for a walk outside, from the time you wake in the morning until the time you go to bed at night, you are looking for opportunities to teach your children how to love God like you do. A parent who loves God with all of his heart, soul, and might will never lament having spent too much time reading Bible stories or teaching Bible principles. Oh, but how often have aching hearts wished for those precious moments to be recalled!
Parents, your family’s faith begins with you. Love the Lord fully, serve him faithfully, and, along with that example, teach your children to do the same. For all of eternity, you will be glad that you did.
Thomas Larkin