As family life has become busier and younger generations have become more rebellious, children are attending church less regularly. There are so many other things to do on a Sunday – like sleep in, participate in sporting events, watch football, hang out with friends and play video games. But if you want your kids to grow up with the Lord as a valuable part of their lives, it’s important that you ensure they attend church. There are several ways to get them to see the light without ruling with an iron fist; here are eight that’ll have them sitting on a pew Sunday mornings.
- Choose a church with a strong youth ministry
Being less rigid in where you decide to attend church will enable you to find a place where you and your kids will be most comfortable. If your current church has an ineffective youth ministry, consider finding a different church that has a strong one. Remember, youth ministries enable the church to connect with younger age groups. If it’s inconsistent and boring, then your kids are probably lacking the socialization they need to feel comfortable in a church environment. - Choose a church with a strong Sunday morning ministry
You can’t expect your kids to get the most out of church if they don’t know what’s being discussed. A competent Sunday morning ministry lays the foundation for a thorough understanding of Scripture that will last into adulthood. Its lessons make the church-going experience more fruitful for the entire family. - Choose a church in your community
Attending a church that’s in your community and thus closer to home is another way to ensure your kids become accustomed to its environment. Not only will they become friends with their peers from throughout the area, but it’ll also be easier to go to church at the spur of the moment. So you can take them to more game nights, for example, without having to alter your schedule. - Become a leader in the church
Assert yourself. If you have something to add, offer your services to your pastor or one of your church’s ministries. Then you’ll be able to personally find new methods to reach your kids and their peers. And once your kids see that you’re involved, they’ll be more likely to become involved themselves. The best way to lead is by example. - Make sure that both Mom AND Dad attend regularly
Again, lead by example. Don’t give your kids mixed signals by allowing your husband or wife to skip out on services while everyone else attends – unless, of course, there are extenuating circumstances. Attending church should serve to strengthen your family, giving you the chance to come together for the purpose of worshipping God. - Challenge them at home
In order to perform well in school, your kids have to do their fair share of studying and homework. The same principle applies here. Take some time at home to study the Bible with your kids, and clarify any questions they may have about the subject matter. You can make it entertaining; there are numerous Christian board games that will challenge your kids’ knowledge of the Bible and encourage family bonding. - Offer rewards
Give them extra incentive to attend church by enticing them with rewards. Offer to take them to their favorite breakfast restaurant before or after church, or give them special privileges at home. It’ll get their feet in the door and start a positive habit. However, don’t allow it to become the expectation. If they aren’t willingly going to church after several appearances, then you should consider the aforementioned “ways.” - Listen to their concerns
As a good parent, you know that listening to your kids is the key to a healthy relationship. Sit them down and ask why they feel attending church is a laborious task. If possible, alleviate their concerns by giving them some say in the matter. Is there a better time to attend church? Or perhaps they aren’t getting along with their peers and would prefer to make new friends. Do what you can to make it an all-around more enjoyable experience.
