5. “I don’t know” is an OK answer.
Sometimes we’re afraid of kids’ questions because we’re afraid we can’t appropriately answer. It’s OK to say, “I don’t know, but let’s research that together.” And then do it! Lee Strobel has a Case for Christ for Kids series that’s a good resource for children’s lessons on faith. So is Brian Dembowczyk’s Cornerstones Parent Guide. Answers in Genesis has some interesting online resources for kids.
Whatever resources you use, remind kids that Scripture is the only inerrant source. We must filter any other information through what the Bible says.
6. Continually point kids back to what they do know.
Point children toward the reality and goodness of God. Mention specific things they’ve experienced, seen, and learned about. From personal family experiences to science-related Creation wonders, remind kids of the evidences God gives us.
Continually remind students of Gospel truths. God made them and loves them. Our sin separates us, but Jesus died and rose again to make a way for us to be reconciled to God. This world is broken. Only God can fix it.
7. Remind children that we’ll never know all the answers.
God is incomprehensible. We can never fully understand who He is and what He does. I usually remind kids that I don’t want a God I can completely figure out. I need a God who is bigger than me.
As important as questioning is, at some point we must rely on faith. Jesus told the disciples, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” (John 20:29). At some point in our questioning, we have to do what Jesus told Thomas, “Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27).
In The Jesus Storybook Bible, Sally Lloyd-Jones writes, “So Abraham trusted what God said more than what His eyes could see.” Let our prayer be that as children ask hard questions and develop a deeper faith, they will always trust God more than what their eyes see.
This article about children’s lessons on faith and doubt originally appeared here.
