Church Chat

Church Chat

If you’re happy and you know it, go to church. Okay, that’s not how the song goes. (You can clap your hands now if you want.) But studies have found that kids who go to church are happier. Researchers at Mississippi State University recently discovered that kids in religious families were better behaved and happier than other children. The study also showed that children whose parents regularly attended church had greater self-control, social skills, and ability to learn.

Wow! It makes sense that church would help you grow closer to God and better understand his Word. But who knew it could make you smarter, friendlier, and more joyful? Add faster and stronger, and church almost sounds like superhero school.

Maybe church is like superhero school. After all, you do learn about the greatest hero of all time: Jesus Christ. As we follow Jesus, he builds our character and helps us to be more self-sacrificing and honorable. Jesus may be the ultimate hero, but when girls are asked to name their heroes, the number-one answer is their dads.

The Bible is in agreement. God wants dads to be the heroes of their families. Dads have an important role. They often work to provide for the needs of their families. They’re also the protectors. Plus, they can bring a lot of fun. God’s Word adds that a dad must teach his children about God. Psalm 78:5 says, “[God] established a testimony in Jacob and set up a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children” (HCSB). God actually commands fathers to pass along his laws and his story to their children.

Daddy-Daughter Time

Fathers, what are some ways that you teach your children about God? Going to church is probably a big part of that. But what else can your family do to grow closer to God?

Talk together about the best part of going to church. Is it the friends? The teaching? The worship? Next time you’re in church as a family, make sure to thank your pastor (or pastors) for all they do.

What’s The Word?

[God] established a testimony in Jacob and set up a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children.   Psalm 78:5 (HCSB)