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Think back to when you were a child. Was there someone outside your family who impacted your faith? Maybe it was a Sunday school teacher, a youth leader, or a kind adult at church who listened and encouraged you. Now, consider this: What if you could be that person for a child in your church today? Whether you're a parent, grandparent, mentor, or simply someone who loves the next generation, you have a vital role in discipling kids.

You might wonder, Why should I invest in discipling kids who aren’t my own? Throughout the Bible, we see mentorship beyond biological ties—Moses and Joshua, Naomi and Ruth, and Paul and Timothy, to name a few.

Scripture is clear. Raising up the next generation in faith is the responsibility of the entire church. Psalm 78:4 says, “We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders.” Parents play the primary role, but this verse speaks to all believers. Every child in your church needs role models who will guide and encourage them. The local church is a spiritual family, and we all share the responsibility of passing down faith.

Here are three practical ways to disciple kids:

       1.  Show Jesus in Everyday Life

Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. Let them watch you live out your faith.

• Let kids see you reading your Bible and share what you're learning.
• Share testimonies of God's faithfulness in a way that's easily understood.
• Invite kids to participate in acts of service—like preparing meals or praying for others.
• Model kindness, forgiveness, and patience.

2. Be Intentional in Conversations
Look for teachable moments. When a child shares a fear, remind them God is with them. Celebrate their successes by acknowledging God’s work.

• Ask open-ended questions about their thoughts on God.
• Use everyday experiences to point to biblical truths.
• Offer to pray with them during tough times.
• Encourage Scripture memory through songs or games.

3. Encourage and Support Families
Support parents as primary disciplers. If a child doesn’t have believing parents, your role is even more crucial:

• Check in with parents and ask how to support their child’s growth.
• Provide resources like family devotionals.
• Organize events that bring families together.
• Be a consistent, loving presence.

Discipling kids isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. You don’t need all the answers; just be consistently real and point them to Jesus. Let’s be a church where every child feels seen, loved, and guided in faith. Who’s a child you can invest in this week?