Piper on Teaching Kids (unbelievers?) to Pray

Should children be taught to pray even if they haven't professed faith?

Yes. I think we should teach our children to pray as soon as they can say anything. The first words they should say are, "Dear Jesus, thank you."

I say this is because I can't discern when a child is being spiritually wrought upon by the Lord. I don't put much stock in children's professions of faith. They seem to come and go. What matters is whether or not they have been born again.


desiringGod.org

Adultolescents

Desiring God on Adultolescents

Sherpherding a Child's Heart

Rick Gamache of Sovereign Grace Fellowship asks his kids these questions....

# How are your devotions?
# What is God teaching you?
# In your own words, what is the gospel?
# Is there a specific sin you’re aware of that you need my help defeating?
# Are you more aware of my encouragement or my criticism?
# What’s daddy most passionate about?
# Do I act the same at church as I do when I’m at home?
# Are you aware of my love for you?
# Is there any way I’ve sinned against you that I’ve not repented of?
# Do you have any observations for me?
# How am I doing as a dad?
# How have Sunday’s sermons impacted you?
# Does my relationship with mom make you excited to be married?
# (On top of these things, with my older kids, I’m always inquiring about their relationship with their friends and making sure God and his gospel are the center of those relationship. And I look for every opportunity to praise their mother and increase their appreciation and love for her.)

HT: JT