Raising Children to Love God | Pastor Paul Booko | Raising Parents

Oct 6, 2024 | Sunday Messages

Dear Riverside Family,

This past Sunday, Pastor Paul delivered a stirring and transformative message titled, “Raising Children to Love God”—a critical installment in our Raising Parents series. It was a profound reminder of our sacred responsibility as parents and caregivers, shaping the next generation not only to believe in God but to love and serve Him wholeheartedly.

 

The Power of a Personal Relationship with God

Pastor Paul began by emphasizing the importance of exposing our children to the joy of knowing God personally. It’s not enough for children to know about God; they must experience Him. As Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NIV) says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children.” Pastor Paul urged us to create environments where our children can encounter God’s love, grace, and presence in their own lives.

 

It’s a joy that fuels their hearts and plants seeds that will grow as they face the many seasons of life. This joy creates an unshakable foundation, one that will carry them through difficult times and anchor them in their faith. Psalm 16:11 (NIV) declares, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Pastor Paul reminded us that children learn more from what we show them than what we tell them. Therefore, our daily lives must reflect the joy we want them to find in their relationship with God.

 

The Church – A Sanctuary of Presence and Power

One of the most impactful ways to nurture our children’s love for God is through active involvement in the church. Pastor Paul explained the significance of exposing our children to the presence and power of God in His church. Psalm 122:1 (NIV) reflects this, “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.'” The church is not just a place to attend, but a living, breathing community where God’s presence is experienced collectively.

 

Through worship, ministry, and fellowship, our children witness firsthand the power of God at work. They see people being transformed, prayers being answered, and faith lived out in real, tangible ways. Acts 2:42 (NIV) shows the early church’s example: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Church isn’t just a Sunday routine; it’s a sacred space where their spiritual roots grow deeper. And as they grow in their understanding of God’s power, they begin to develop a faith that is both personal and communal, deeply rooted in the body of Christ.

 

The Thrill of Being Used by God

In what was perhaps the most energizing point, Pastor Paul spoke passionately about helping our children experience the thrill of being used by God. He reminded us that the Next Gen is the Now Gen. 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV) says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” We don’t need to wait for our children to be “old enough” to serve God. Whether it’s through serving in the church, being kind to their classmates, or praying for a friend, children can be active participants in God’s kingdom right now.

 

By allowing them to serve and experience the joy of doing God’s work, we help them discover their God-given purpose. Matthew 5:16 (NIV) reminds us, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” It’s in these moments that their faith becomes alive and personal. When they see how God uses them to make a difference, they start to realize their place in His grand story.

 

A Generational Vision

Pastor Paul’s closing point reminded us of the long-term, generational impact of our parenting. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV) emphasizes the importance of building a legacy of faith: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” God has given us a vision for our children’s future, one that is filled with hope, purpose, and a deep love for Him. Our role as parents is to guide them, nurture their faith, and trust that God will continue the work in their hearts.

 

Takeaway Challenge:

As you go through this week, let’s focus on these key challenges:

  • Joyful Encounters: How can you create opportunities for your children to encounter God personally this week? As Psalm 78:4 (NIV) states, “We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.”

  • Presence in Community: Make church a non-negotiable part of your family’s rhythm. Encourage your children to engage, ask questions, and seek God’s presence.

  • Get Involved: Look for ways your children can serve others and discover the thrill of being part of God’s plan.

     

Let us never forget that we are raising a generation who will carry God’s light forward. The Next Gen is the Now Gen—and the seeds we plant today will bear fruit for generations to come.

 

If you missed this impactful message, be sure to catch up below:

Together, let’s commit to raising children who passionately love and serve God. The legacy of faith we build today will shine for generations to come.

Blessings,

Chanel Penn
Communications Director, Riverside Church

Sermon Video