Becky Sweat offers 10 ways to convey spiritual values to children: model good behavior; apologize when you fail; discuss everyday issues; read the Bible; share personal experiences; hold children accountable; urge them to finish projects they start; lead them in helping others; monitor their TV and internet use; and applaud good behavior. Many of the rules God gave ancient Israel were designed to teach values and reinforce good behavior. When they entered the Promised Land, they were to bring some of their first produce as a gift to God–portions of their first harvest of grain or the first of every animal born. These were to be presented to God. The priority of God first impressed upon them the source of their blessings. It was He who caused their crops to grow and their animals to mate. They were also told not to harvest the edges of their fields—to leave this for the poor, teaching them to be concerned for the less fortunate. The lessons God gave people long ago can be a model for us today. We transmit spiritual values not only by what we say, but also by what we do, and the positive experiences we enable children to have.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
