2 Timothy 3:15 reads, “From infancy you have known the holy Scriptures.”
There’s a story about a woman who came to her pastor and said, “How early should I start the spiritual training of my child?” The pastor asked, “How old is the child?” She answered, “Five.” He replied, “Lady, get busy—you’re already five years late!”
Psychologists confirm that your child’s capacity and hunger for knowledge begins at infancy. So while they are in the listening stage, you should be in the teaching stage. Take every opportunity to read the Bible to them. Use everyday experiences to teach them what God’s Word has to say about the Golden Rule, how to be polite, how to forgive, and how to confess and repent of sin.
Never underestimate God’s ability to develop spiritual character and teach spiritual truths to your children, even at a very early age. While their heart is still young and tender, introduce them to Jesus. Some of the greatest Christians in history were saved at an early age. Jonathan Edwards, whose ministry shook New England for God, was saved at the age of eight. Charles Spurgeon, “the prince of preachers,” was saved at the age of twelve. Matthew Henry, the great Bible commentator, was saved at the age of eleven. Timothy was an apostle by the time he was seventeen.
Paul writes, “From infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” Yes, your child can understand the basic truths about salvation – and they can come to know Christ at an early age.
© 2017 CE