As parents, we all want the best for our children. We want to raise them to be compassionate, wise, and resilient adults who make good choices. But beyond those traits, for Christian parents, there’s an even deeper desire: to see our children develop a lasting relationship with God. This journey of faith starts early, and it’s why early childhood discipleship is so important.
Early childhood discipleship isn’t just about introducing your kids to Bible stories or teaching them to say prayers before bed—though those are wonderful practices. It’s about laying a strong spiritual foundation that will guide their entire lives. Let’s explore why this early discipleship is so vital, how it can be woven into everyday life, and the impact it can have on both your child and your family.
Why Start Early?
Children are like sponges. You’ve probably heard this before, and it’s true—especially in the early years. During this stage, their brains are developing rapidly, and they’re absorbing everything around them, including the values and beliefs that will shape their worldview. This is why the early years are such a critical period for discipleship.
Starting early doesn’t mean pushing complex theology onto toddlers or expecting them to understand deep spiritual concepts. It means introducing them to the basics of who God is, how much He loves them, and what it means to live a life that reflects His teachings. These early lessons help to root children in a strong faith foundation that will grow with them.
Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” The seeds of faith we plant in our children during their formative years have the potential to bear fruit throughout their entire lives. When we introduce children to God at a young age, we’re helping them establish a lifelong relationship with Him.
What the Bible Says About Early Discipleship
The Bible gives clear guidance on the importance of teaching our children about God from an early age. Deuteronomy 6:7 instructs us to diligently teach God’s commandments to our children—talking about them at home, on the road, when we lie down, and when we get up. This passage highlights the idea that spiritual instruction should be a part of everyday life.
As parents, we are called to be the primary spiritual leaders in our children’s lives. While church programs and Sunday School are wonderful supplements, the responsibility of shaping our children’s faith lies first and foremost with us. It’s a role that God has entrusted to us, and it’s one of the most important aspects of parenting.
Moses’ command in Deuteronomy wasn’t just for the Israelites thousands of years ago—it’s for us today. Our job is to create a home where God is central, where His Word is taught not only in formal settings but woven into the fabric of our everyday routines.
The Role of Spiritual Formation in Early Childhood
Spiritual formation during early childhood is about more than just teaching religious practices. It’s about shaping how children see the world, themselves, and God. At this young age, children are forming their understanding of concepts like love, trust, and authority—all of which are integral to their relationship with God.
When we disciple our children early, we help them understand that their identity is rooted in being a child of God. This knowledge provides a sense of security and belonging that they carry with them into adulthood. It helps them navigate the challenges of life with a sense of purpose and confidence, knowing they are loved and valued by their Creator.
Moreover, studies show that early religious education has a lasting impact on a person’s faith. Children who are taught about God from a young age are more likely to retain their faith as they grow older. By introducing our children to God early on, we give them the tools they need to stay rooted in their faith, even as they face the pressures and distractions of the world.
The Benefits of Early Discipleship
The benefits of early childhood discipleship extend far beyond Sunday mornings. Here are just a few of the many ways that starting discipleship early can positively impact your child:
- Long-Term Faith Retention: Children who grow up learning about God from a young age are more likely to maintain their faith into adulthood. These early lessons stay with them, providing a moral and spiritual compass as they navigate life.
- Building a Moral Foundation: When we disciple our children, we’re helping them develop a strong moral foundation. We’re teaching them values like honesty, kindness, and forgiveness, all of which are rooted in biblical principles.
- Emotional and Social Benefits: Early discipleship also fosters emotional security. When children know they are loved by God and have a community that supports them, they’re more likely to develop healthy relationships and a positive sense of self-worth.
- Strengthening the Family Bond: Discipleship is not just for the child—it’s for the whole family. When parents prioritize faith, it creates a deeper bond within the family unit. It encourages open conversations, shared experiences, and mutual support in living out the Christian faith together.
Practical Ways to Disciple Your Child
The idea of discipling your child might seem overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Early discipleship is about consistency and making faith a natural part of your child’s life. Here are some simple, practical steps to get started:
- Incorporate Faith into Daily Routines: Look for ways to integrate faith into your everyday activities. Pray together before meals, share a Bible story before bedtime, or talk about God’s creation on a walk. Discipleship can happen in the most ordinary moments.
- Model Your Faith: Children learn by watching, so one of the most powerful ways to disciple your child is to live out your faith in front of them. Let them see you pray, worship, and make decisions that honor God.
- Use Child-Friendly Resources: There are so many great resources designed to help children learn about God. From Bible storybooks to Christian music and videos, these tools can make discipleship fun and engaging for your little ones.
- Create a Faith-Filled Environment: Surround your child with reminders of God’s presence. This could be Bible verses on the walls, worship music playing in the background, or even a special family devotion time. The goal is to create an atmosphere where faith is part of the rhythm of daily life.
Overcoming the Challenges of Early Discipleship
Like anything worth doing, discipling your child comes with its challenges. The busyness of life, societal influences, and even our own fatigue can make it hard to stay consistent. But remember, the most important thing is to start small and stay intentional.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take heart in knowing that God doesn’t expect perfection. He simply asks for your faithfulness. Start with small steps and build from there. Over time, these small acts of discipleship will make a big difference in your child’s spiritual journey.
Early childhood discipleship is one of the most important things we can do for our children. By teaching them about God from a young age, we’re giving them a foundation that will support them throughout their lives. It’s not always easy, and it won’t always look perfect, but the impact of early discipleship will be felt for generations to come.
As you disciple your child, remember that you’re not just shaping their future—you’re shaping the future of the church. Every prayer, every Bible story, and every conversation about God is an investment in their spiritual growth. Let’s commit to starting early, being intentional, and trusting that God will do the rest.
