Raising Bible Warriors: Instilling the Habit of Engaging with God's Word

One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is teaching them to engage with God’s Word every day. Children and teens are especially receptive to learning when we lead by example, modeling the habits we want them to develop. While it’s true that bad habits spread quickly, good habits can also be passed on if we approach them with love, patience, and consistency. Reading and reflecting on the Bible is a habit worth cultivating from an early age.

We call our students Warriors, and we prepare them with God’s Armor so they can face life’s challenges and emerge victorious. Central to this preparation is studying God’s Word regularly, understanding it, and applying it to life. To help you encourage your children to develop a lasting habit of Bible reading, here are some practical suggestions:

1. Live it Out – Let your children see you reading, praying, and reflecting on the Bible. Your consistent example shows them that connecting with God is a joyful, regular part of life.

2. Create a Special Bible Time Together – Set aside a few minutes each day to read a verse, story, or passage together. Ask simple questions about what it means and let them share their thoughts. Keep it short, engaging, and stress-free.

3. Use Creative Tools – Bring God’s Word to life with illustrated Bibles, devotional apps, or audio versions. Younger children can benefit from drawings, music, or storytelling, while teens might enjoy discussion guides or interactive devotionals.

4. Encourage Personal Reflection – Invite your child to write down a verse that speaks to them, create a small drawing, or journal about what they learned. This helps them connect personally with the Scripture.

5. Connect Bible Lessons to Daily Life – Point out how the Bible applies to real-life situations, such as showing kindness, practicing patience, or making wise decisions. When children see God’s Word at work, they become more motivated to read it.

6. Celebrate Growth – Recognize and encourage their efforts. Compliment them on memorizing verses, answering questions thoughtfully, or sharing Scripture with family or friends. Positive reinforcement makes the habit enjoyable and meaningful.

7. Have Conversations About Faith – Use Bible reading as a springboard for deeper discussions about God, values, and life choices. Open dialogue helps children feel comfortable expressing doubts, asking questions, and understanding how to live out their faith.

Bible reading doesn’t have to feel like a chore; it can be fun and exciting. With love, creativity, and patience, you can help your children weave God’s Word into their everyday lives. The seeds you plant now will grow into a lifelong connection with Scripture, shaping their character, strengthening their faith, and blessing their future. Teaching your children to read and cherish the Bible is one of the most valuable legacies you can leave, and watching them grow in God’s Word is one of the most rewarding blessings you will experience.