4. Eat the Meal
Research shows that children who have dinner with their parents are less likely to drink, smoke, do drugs, get pregnant, become depressed or develop eating disorders. They also do better socially and academically…and I believe spiritually. Why? Because a family meal is much more than eating. It’s a time to pray, communicate, connect, mentor and disciple.
5. Serve the People
When a child sees parents serving others, it makes a huge impact spiritually in the child’s life. Serving is a key component of discipleship, and kids who grow up to love Jesus have families that serve. Kids’ faith becomes animated as they watch their parents serve and begin serving themselves. One of the best things parents can do for their kids spiritually is to get them serving others.
6. Love the Spouse
The best parenting tool is a happy marriage. Solid marriages create solid kids. Parents who love each other have kids who love Jesus.
7. Pray the Prayers
Prayer is a vital part of kids growing up to love Jesus. Kids who grow up to love Jesus have parents who pray for them. Here’s an example of a prayer calendar we created for parents.
8. Set Boundaries
Children who stray the most don’t have reasonable rules and boundaries. Parents who are consistent in enforcing set rules and boundaries end up becoming very close to their kids. Of course, this doesn’t mean over-doing rules or having rules without relationship.
