Rather, its emphasis is on teaching our children about God and His word. The below verses make it clear that God's word is to be the centre of family life. When we rise, when we are sitting down for a meal, when we travel and when we go to sleep, the words of scripture should not be far from our lips and minds.
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up."Deuteronomy 6 4-7 (NKJV)
The Bible contains not only chapters of instruction but also fascinating historical accounts of numerous men, women and children. These true stories are invaluable in teaching children the benefits and blessings of following the Lord. They offer many lessons and examples from those who obeyed God and those who did not. The Bible is better than any fairytale storybook or adventure novel.
In addition, teaching our children God's word will give them the correct perspective for understanding the world and its problems. It will help them grasp what it means to be human and why there is suffering in the world. It will equip them to build their lives on a rock which does not give way in the storms of life.
The Gospel accounts are arguably the most important stories of all. What could be a more vital lesson than to learn about God's plan of salvation through His Son? What better way to teach children about the character of God than by showing them the life of Christ? Who but the Lord could provide them with a perfect example of compassion, truth and obedience?
In a world where resources for children are so plentiful, we need to make sure we do not neglect the book of books, the Bible.
