My heart overflowed with joy as my 6-year-old daughter made the life-changing decision to accept Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. As I reflect on this beautiful moment, I want to share our story along with practical tips for sharing the gospel with your kids, in the hope that it encourages other parents on this meaningful journey.
This moment was the culmination of a journey that had been quietly unfolding. A week before, our church held a special session for the K2 children in the children’s ministry (CM). During this session, the teachers shared the gospel in an age-appropriate way, guiding the children through the powerful truth of John 3:16:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
At the end of the lesson, an invitation was given for the children to pray and receive Jesus as their Savior. my daughter responded positively but later shared with me that she felt like crying during the prayer but was too afraid to show her emotions. I reassured her that these feelings were a sign of the Holy Spirit touching her heart.
The church thoughtfully followed up with a note, sharing her response and providing resources to help us discern her decision and nurture her newfound faith.
God’s Hand in my daughter’s Journey
Looking back, I can see how God had been preparing my daughter’s heart. From a young age, she showed a tender understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Stories like Daniel in the lion’s den, Noah’s ark, and Adam and Eve captivated her, and she loved watching Bible story videos on YouTube by Saddleback Kids.
As parents, we weren’t always sure what she was thinking or feeling. But we committed it to the Lord, trusting Him to guide her in His perfect timing. We also incorporated faith gently into our family routines—weekly Sunday night prayers and conversations about God became part of our rhythm.
The evening of her decision came when we read through the picture book our church had provided. my daughter listened intently, and when we reached the prayer of salvation, she told me she felt like crying. This time, she didn’t hold back. As we prayed together, tears streamed down her face. It was a powerful, holy moment I will never forget.
Salvation Prayer
Dear God. Thank you for loving me. I’m sorry for all the wrong things I have done. Please forgive me. Thank you for sending Jesus to save me. I believe that Jesus died for all my sins and saved me. I receive Jesus into my heart and into my life as my Savior and my Lord. Amen.
Reflections and Tips for Parents
Every child’s faith journey is unique, and as parents, our role is to faithfully plant seeds, trusting God to bring the harvest. Here are a few things we’ve learned:
- Create Opportunities to Share Faith
Whether it’s reading Bible stories, watching faith-based videos, or establishing family traditions like Sunday prayers, find ways to naturally introduce God into your family’s daily life. - Partner with Your Church Community
my daughter’s church session was instrumental in her decision to follow Christ. Take advantage of church resources and build relationships with your children’s ministry leaders. They can provide valuable support as you guide your child’s spiritual growth. - Be Patient and Pray
It’s easy to wonder if your child is truly understanding what they hear about God. Trust that the Holy Spirit is working, even if you don’t see immediate results. Commit their journey to the Lord and rest in His perfect timing. - Let Them Express Their Faith
When your child starts asking questions or sharing feelings, listen without pressure. Encourage them to explore their faith in a way that feels authentic to them. - Celebrate Their Decision
When the moment comes, rejoice with them and remind them of who they are in Christ. This affirmation can help solidify their confidence in their faith.
- Create Opportunities to Share Faith
A New Beginning
Now that my daughter has accepted Christ, her journey with God begins. I reminded her that she is a child of God, and when she feels afraid, she can pray to Jesus and know He’s always with her. Watching her take this first step of faith fills my heart with gratitude and hope.
As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us:
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
I share this story not to prescribe a formula but to encourage you in your own parenting journey. Each child’s path to faith is different, and the Holy Spirit works uniquely in their lives. Trust God, be faithful in your role, and rejoice when they take steps of faith.
My prayer is that my daughter will continue to grow in her love for Christ everyday!
