A faith leader advises that parents should not rely on the world to instill religious beliefs in their children.

Pastor Jesse Bradley of Washington stated that every child is a gift from God, uniquely designed, and made in the image of God as the back-to-school season begins for millions of children across the country.

"The way we prioritize, safeguard, and cherish children reflects the moral well-being of a society," he added.

The lead pastor at Grace Community Church in Auburn, Washington, who is also a husband and father, emphasized the importance of maintaining faith in children in the face of a secular and divisive culture.

Bradley stated, "Jesus advised against hindering children from coming to Him, as the kingdom of God belongs to them, according to Matthew 19:14."

Jesus' death and resurrection provide peace with God and shalom in the home for every child, according to the Christian faith leader.

Sharing your faith with your kids can be more challenging than simply passing along what is meaningful and beneficial, as parents often face difficulties in doing so.

According to the researcher, "Gen Z is the open generation" and they are interested in Jesus when someone talks to them about God and provides a safe space to process their relationship with Him.

In Deuteronomy 6:4-7, God provides parents with clear instructions on how to train their kids in the Lord. This involves a relational, conversational and intentional approach to faith.

While "many parents provide for the physical, emotional, intellectual and athletic needs of their children, what about their souls?"

Avoid being passive, do not rely on the world to teach your children about God, and do not anticipate that everything will occur at church.

What about the spiritual needs of children?

He imparted four pieces of advice to assist parents and family caregivers in instilling their faith in their children.

1. The ‘greatest impact is from up close’

"While doctrine is useful, it is not as important as living life together. Children desire more than just the truth; they need to feel loved."

To convey this, he said, parents need to listen well and understand that God is the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. There is a ministry of presence and nearness that gives a child a sense of security and connection.

So "pray together and God will unite your souls."

You cannot lead your children further in faith than you decide to pursue yourself.

"Why do you believe what you believe, too?" asked Bradley, as children wanted to know their parents' beliefs.

Explain to them the basis of your optimism: following Jesus is grounded in evidence and facts, not blind faith.

He said that children observe actions on Sunday mornings, but they want to see how you behave when no one is watching. How do you react when you're frustrated? What about when money is tight? What is your response when someone mistreats you?

Lifelong learners who grow in their faith inspire the next generation, as he stated.

Children will mimic your actions more than your words.

The pastor said, "Children will always see deeper than your statements."

"If you want your children to trust and follow Jesus, ensure that you are living a double life," he stated.

"If you tell your kids to speak kind words, make sure you avoid gossip and slander."

"Ensure honesty in business, taxes, and neighborly interactions when teaching kids about integrity. Similarly, practice generosity by tipping well at restaurants and giving to those who cannot repay when imparting the value of kindness."

To encourage kind words from your kids, ensure you refrain from spreading rumors and falsehoods.

Apologizing for bad decisions is important, even if you're not perfect.

By developing shared practices, you can establish an enduring legacy.

Bradley stated that teaching kids to read the Bible daily can provide spiritual nourishment.

Parents can also do the following, he said:

• Teach kids how to have an attitude of gratitude in every situation
• Teach kids to serve others with hospitality instead of expecting to be served.
• Teach kids how to use their talents to bless others and glorify

Even during stressful moments, parents can teach their children how to draw closer to God, maintain a non-anxious presence, and surrender their burdens to the Lord who cares for them. These invaluable hope habits that families experience together can become a lasting legacy for parents.

Parents should seize every opportunity and rely on God's guidance and strength throughout their journey.

If your children are thriving spiritually, continue to support their growth. We cannot control, dictate or coerce our children, but we can remain faithful to inspire them in profound ways.

Bradley is founder of JustChooseHope.org.