One of our principal ministries as parents is discipling those who God has placed in our family. We are aware of this responsibility, and we usually have the “want to.” But the “how to” might seem overwhelming. We must not let our feelings of incompetence lead us to rely solely on the ministry leaders at church, reminding our children to do what they say and leave it at that. Discipleship is so much more. Discipleship in the home is far too essential to be handed off to someone else, even if they are excellent examples of living a godly life.
When addressing discipleship in the home, we must set realistic expectations. High expectations are often unattainable. Unmet expectations lead to feelings of failure and the desire to give up. Avoid comparing family worship time to your corporate worship on Sunday morning. Worship in your home might be discussing what your child learned at church or reading the Bible together one night a week. Build on these simple habits, and the Lord will meet you where you are and guide you on this journey.
Keep in mind that discipleship is a way of life, not a new program you are implementing. Look to Deuteronomy 6:5–9 as a description of what the Lord expects discipleship to look like in our homes. Make conversations about Christ and His sacrifice a common occurrence. Use topics in the news or in a movie to discuss worldview. Talk about the character of God and share ways you experience His character. Look for these learning opportunities.
Our goal should always be to point our children to Jesus. It is easier but dangerous to focus on behavior. God is less concerned with external behavior and more concerned with our hearts. So we must focus on Him and do our best to help our children develop hearts that love and obey Him. Behavior matters, but the motivation behind behavior matters more.
The best instruction will come out of what you are learning. So you must be in God’s Word daily, seeking to study the Scriptures deeply. Your kids can learn so much from the example you live out in front of them, and we know children are keen observers and quickly identify inconsistencies. So we have to be honest when we make mistakes and seek repentance as necessary. As you grow in your relationship with Christ, your confidence will also grow, and you will have more to offer. Lean into God’s power and remember that He works in you (Philippians 2:12-13).
Ask yourself:
Am I displaying God’s love, grace, and mercy to others?
Is the fruit of the Spirit evident in my life?
Am I choosing an attitude of thankfulness and joy?
The answers to these questions will help you gauge what you need to work on. This will help you become the guide in discipleship you need to be for your kids.
Finally, lean on your community of faith. The Lord gives us a church family and fellow believers to strengthen our walk with Him and to help us as we disciple our children at home. One of the most powerful and important things you can do for your child is pray for them. Make this a daily habit, and look for ways to pray with them as well. Discipleship isn’t an easy task, but it is a necessary task, and the Lord is with us every step of the way.
If you would like additional tools to help further your discipleship efforts at home, check out the D6 EveryDay Foundations devotional study guides. https://store.randallhouse.com/product-category/d6-everyday/
These resources are designed to deepen your faith and provide structured, meaningful conversations with your family.
Additionally, don’t miss Splink, a free resource offering creative ideas and activities to help families connect spiritually. Both resources are excellent options to support and enhance your journey in faith.
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Source: Splink
