One of the deepest longings of a parent’s heart is to see their children walk in the truth. For those of us who found our way to Jesus later in life, it’s natural to feel regret over missed opportunities and wonder if we’ve lost our chance to guide our children spiritually. But remember, our God is a Redeemer, not just of our souls but of our stories. He can use you right where you are to help your children see Him clearly, no matter their age or how far they may seem.
Our success in reaching our children depends on God’s intervention, and it begins with prayer. Pray fervently for your children, asking God to soften their hearts and draw them closer to Him. Scripture tells us, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). Never underestimate the impact of your prayers, even when you feel like you’re only scratching the surface. God hears every cry of a parent’s heart and is at work behind the scenes, even when we cannot see it.
Prayer is powerful, but alongside it, Scripture is your greatest ally. God’s Word is not just a book of ancient teachings; it is living and active, cutting through doubt, confusion, and resistance. The Bible reminds us, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). When you share Scripture with your children, you are planting seeds that have the potential to change their hearts and lives forever.
Be intentional in how you weave Scripture into everyday life. This doesn’t mean bombarding them with long passages or coming across as preachy. Instead, let the Word of God naturally find its way into your conversations. When they face struggles, gently share verses that provide comfort and direction, like “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). When they achieve something great, remind them of God’s blessings with verses like “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). By using Scripture in response to real-life moments, you’re showing them that God’s Word is not just for church or Sunday mornings—it’s for every day, every situation, and every decision.
Find opportunities to read the Bible together, even if it’s just a few verses at a time. Consider starting with books like Proverbs, which offer practical wisdom for everyday life, or the Gospel of John, which provides a compelling look at who Jesus is and why He matters. If they’re hesitant or not yet open to reading with you, find other ways to engage them. Leave a Bible open to a favorite passage in a place they’ll see, or send them a short, encouraging verse via text. Sometimes, the smallest gestures can have the biggest impact.
Live out the Scriptures in your daily life. Your actions often speak louder than any words you could say. When your children witness you handling life’s ups and downs with faith, kindness, and perseverance, it reinforces the truth of the Scriptures you share. And when you make mistakes—and you will—don’t shy away from admitting them. Model the biblical principles of repentance and forgiveness, remembering “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Your authenticity in living out God’s Word can often be the most powerful sermon your children will ever hear.
Keep your hope anchored in God’s promises. You might not see immediate results, but God’s Word assures us, “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11). The Scriptures you share, the prayers you pray, and the love you show are all part of a greater work that God is doing. Trust that His Word will not return void, and that He is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in both you and your children.
Remember, it is God who ultimately changes hearts. Your role is to be faithful—to pray, to share Scripture, and to live a life that reflects His love and truth. God’s grace extends beyond your past mistakes and reaches into your children’s future. Keep sharing, keep loving, and keep trusting that God is working in their lives, drawing them closer to Him, one step at a time.