As parents, we often underestimate the spiritual potential of our young children. However, the Bible reminds us that God speaks to and through children (Matthew 21:16). Between the ages of 4 and 7, children are in a critical developmental stage, making it an ideal time to nurture their relationship with God intentionally. Based on our focus on Intentional Godly Parenting, here are six profound spiritual milestones young children can achieve when guided and encouraged:
1. They Can Be Saved
Salvation is not limited to adults. Children, even as young as four, can grasp the love of Jesus and the message of salvation. Through intentional teaching, sharing Bible stories, and modelling a genuine relationship with Christ, parents can help their children understand the gospel. A child’s simple yet powerful faith often enables them to accept Christ with an open heart. Don’t wait—encourage your child to respond to the Holy Spirit’s prompting.
2. They Can Be Baptized in the Holy Spirit
Children are not too young to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit. The evidence of speaking in tongues is not reserved for adults—it is a gift available to all believers, regardless of age. Create an environment of faith where children are taught about the Holy Spirit, encouraged to seek Him, and given the opportunity to receive. Their childlike faith makes them especially open to the Holy Spirit’s work.
3. They Can Pray with Scriptures
Teaching children to pray with scriptures equips them to align their prayers with God’s Word. This practice enhances a deeper connection to God, builds their faith, and helps them understand His promises. By incorporating scripture into daily prayer time, children learn to declare God’s Word boldly and trust Him to answer. As parents, we can model this by praying scripture over our children and encouraging them to do the same.
4. They Can Receive Visions from the Lord
God often uses visions and dreams to speak to His children, including the youngest among us. Children have pure and unclouded hearts, making them more receptive to hearing and seeing from God. Encourage your child to share their dreams and spiritual impressions, and teach them to discern and respond to God’s voice. Listening to their experiences and validating their encounters with God can deepen their spiritual journey.
5. They Can Read the Whole Bible in One Year
Yes, even young children can develop the discipline and passion to read the Bible in its entirety. Grace, my daughter, for instance, joined a challenge for children to reading the New Testament in just one month!, and guess what, she almost completed it. By creating a daily Bible reading plan suited to their age, you can help your child engage with God’s Word consistently. Consider reading alongside them, discussing key passages, and celebrating their progress to make the experience enjoyable and fulfilling.
6. They Can Hear God Speak Clearly
Children are uniquely positioned to hear God’s voice with clarity. Their faith is simple, and their hearts are open. Teaching your child to recognize God’s voice requires intentionality. Encourage quiet moments of prayer, where they can listen for His guidance. Share examples from your own life where you’ve heard God speak, and teach them to test what they hear against scripture.
How Can We Help Children Achieve These Milestones?
As intentional, godly parents, it’s our privilege and responsibility to guide our children in their spiritual journey. Here are some practical ways to encourage their growth:
- Model a Vibrant Faith: Children learn by example. Let them see you praying, worshiping, and studying God’s Word.
- Create a Spirit-Filled Home Environment: Create an atmosphere where God’s presence is welcome, and spiritual activities are a natural part of daily life.
- Teach and Explain: Break down complex spiritual concepts into simple, relatable lessons that children can understand.
- Encourage Their Faith Steps: Celebrate their spiritual milestones, whether it’s their first prayer, completing a Bible storybook, or sharing a vision they’ve received.
- Pray for and with Them: Cover your children in prayer daily and invite them to join you in interceding for others.
A Call to Action for Parents
Parenting intentionally in a godly way involves recognizing the incredible potential your children have to grow spiritually, even at a young age. With your guidance, they can develop a deep, unshakable relationship with God that will shape the rest of their lives.
Let’s raise a generation of children who know God deeply, hear His voice clearly, and walk boldly in His purpose!