HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILDREN TO START HEARING GOD AND RECOGNIZE HIS VOICE, EVEN AS YOUNG AS THEY ARE?

The fact is that children see and hear lots of things, many of which they don’t fully understand. Some they can’t put in words and explain; some they forget as they grow; and some are like seeds that are planted in them quite early in life, and grow with them as they grow into young adults. Children hardly discuss what they see or hear with adults, unless you are very close to them and they trust you.

God speaks to children and shows them things that many adults will never see. The devil does that too – he speaks and shows things to children; especially children of hyper busy parents, who he knows are too busy to monitor changes in the behavior and habits of their children. Often, children carelessly say things they see when they play with friends, because they trust each other. Sometimes, a child who appears to be talking and communicating with himself alone is not actually alone. A spiritually sensitive parent knows the importance of using the Blood of Jesus Christ in instances like this, and especially when you are not sure who or what he or she is talking to.

To help a child hear and recognize God’s voice; introduce the gospel to them early enough, through Bible stories. Even before they start speaking, begin to read and rehearse Bible stories to them. They may be young physically, but their spirit is old enough to understand the Bible. Never wait till a child starts speaking or reaches a certain age before you start talking to them about Jesus – it’s always a wait too long.

Besides introducing the gospel early, teach them how to pray in Jesus Name; cover themselves with the Blood of Jesus Christ and memorize Bible verses; and don’t forget to constantly teach them why all these are important. We often wonder if they will understand, and that’s one of the devil’s oldest tactics for keeping parents from teaching their children spiritual truths very early in life. Yours is to talk and teach at every opportunity; and leave the understanding part to God.

If their hearts are rightly equipped and prepared for the things of God, they will see things and hear things you never knew they could. Children as young as 2 years old have been known to see; and be able to describe heaven and Jesus, in a manner that is consistent with the scriptures. Don’t allow their innocent hearts to be occupied with pictures and images of demi-gods; sexual and violence scenes from cartoons; and such things – these too have a way of coming back to shape the lives and characters of children later in life.

Olumofin Kehinde Benjamin writes for Praying Parents Prayer Group Christian Ministry.