Helping your child understand what it means to follow God every day. Not just on Sundays.
"Living for Jesus" isn't a phrase kids hear much outside of church. But it's one of the most important things they can begin to understand. The goal isn't perfect behavior. It's a relationship. A kid who lives for Jesus isn't one who never messes up. It's one who knows where to turn when they do.
This guide will help you open that conversation at home, in your own words.
Jesus gave us a simple summary: "Love God with everything you have, and love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37–39). Living for Jesus means:
For kids, this looks like choosing kindness on the playground, being honest even when it costs something, and knowing that Sunday isn't just one hour. It's a way of living all week long.
Start small. Consistent beats big and sporadic.
Talk to God every day: Not a formal prayer. Just a conversation. "God, today I'm worried about..." or "God, thank You for..." Invite your kids to pray in their own words.
Read the Bible together: Even 5 minutes matters. Pick a kids' Bible or reading plan and start small. The Jesus Storybook Bible (ages 3–7) and the NIrV Adventure Bible (ages 6–12) are great starting points.
Practice love in action: Give your child specific opportunities to serve and show kindness: helping a neighbor, sharing with a sibling, encouraging a friend.
Talk about it: Make faith a normal dinner-table conversation, not just a Sunday topic.
Use these at dinner, in the car, or at bedtime.
Pick one a week and read it together.