When it comes to children, it is important to remember they are spiritual beings. As a parent, you need to understand that your child will desire things he or she has developed an appetite for. Many appetites aren’t natural but rather acquired. I remember when I was a kid how I once tried to drink coffee. One big gulp, and I knew it wasn’t for me. But over the years, as I continued to sip it, I developed a taste for it.

When you’re young, whatever you get around you start to like. If you want your child to love God and godly things, then get him or her around godly things. Of course, living a godly life yourself is necessary if you want to develop this appetite in your child. Teach your child Bible stories and get him or her around people and other kids who love God. Don’t be concerned if he or she doesn’t seem to like it much at first. Over time, it will seem normal and your child won’t want to live without it.

As a parent it is your responsibility to manage your home and the appetites in your home. It is never too late. Appetites can be changed and developed. Once your child develops an appetite for God, eventually he or she will start to crave the things of God and love the Lord. I know many kids who love God so much all they do is talk about Him and can’t wait to get to church. They are children full of revival and know how to call on the presence and power of God and have even become vessels for Him to work through and touch other people’s lives.

Children don’t have to wait to become adults to experience God and touch people’s lives. They have the Holy Spirit, not a junior Holy Spirit. They can desire, crave, reach out, and be consumed by the living God as much as any adult. It’s up to parents to help them develop an appetite for this to happen.