Raising children with Christian values in a secular world can feel like navigating uncharted waters. As parents, we yearn to instill our faith and principles in our children, but the influences of a secular society often seem overwhelming. Thankfully, we have access to the best example we can follow: God our Father and how He raises us in this earthly world.

Imagine a father who loved his children deeply and wanted nothing but the best for them. He guided them with love and discipline, teaching them right from wrong. He was always there for them, providing wisdom, comfort, and support. This father reflects our Heavenly Father, who is the ultimate model for raising children. Just as God raises us with love, patience, and guidance, we can do the same for our children.

The Bible provides clear instructions on raising children. Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” This verse emphasizes the importance of early and consistent training in faith and values. But how do we practically apply this wisdom in a world that often contradicts our beliefs?

One effective method is to remember the acronym TRAIN: Teach, Repeat, Available, Intercede, and Nurture.

Teach: It all begins with teaching. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV) says, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down, and when you get up.” Make every moment a teaching moment. Share Bible stories, discuss the teachings of Jesus, and explain the importance of living a life that honors God.

Repeat: Repetition is key to reinforcement. Children learn through repetition, so consistently reinforce the lessons you teach. This can be through daily devotionals, weekly church attendance, and regular discussions about faith and morals. The more they hear and see Christian values in action, the more they will internalize them. One of my friends does this by using their family movie time to reinforce what she’s taught them by pausing the movie and drawing the lessons from the scenes.

Available: Make yourself available for your children. James 1:19 (NIV) advises us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Being available means being present in their lives, listening to their concerns, and guiding them through their challenges. Your availability shows them that they are valued and that their faith is important. It also avails you the opportunity to clarify what you’ve taught them when they’re challenged by secular views from their interactions with their friends in school or colleagues at work.

Intercede: Pray for your children daily. Philippians 4:6 (NIV) encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Pray for their spiritual growth, their protection from secular influences, and for wisdom as you guide them. Prayer is a powerful tool in raising children with Christian values. You can set an alarm for the same time every day. That way you don’t forget to do it consistently. It’s noon for me—wherever I am, I pause to pray for them.

Nurture: Finally, nurture their faith by creating a supportive environment. Surround them with a community of believers through church, youth groups, and Christian friends. Provide them with resources like Christian books, music, and movies that reinforce their values. Ephesians 6:4 (NIV) reminds us, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”

By following the TRAIN method, we can effectively raise our children with Christian values, even in a secular world. Teach them diligently, repeat the lessons often, be available for their needs, intercede through prayer, and nurture their faith in a supportive environment. Remember, just as God our Father raises us with unwavering love and guidance, we too can raise our children to walk in His ways.

Incorporating these practical wisdom steps into your parenting can make a significant difference. Trust in God’s example, and you’ll find that raising children with Christian values in a secular world is not only possible but incredibly rewarding.