Raising Daniel's in Today's World: Equipping Our Children for Kingdom Impact
As kingdom mothers, we are called to raise children who stand out for God's glory, much like Daniel did in the Bible. But what does that look like for us today, in a world where culture seems to be constantly shifting?
In the book of Daniel, we see how Daniel was taken into exile and educated in Babylon's culture, learning their laws, their government systems, and societal norms. This is an important lesson for us as parents: our children need to understand current culture in order to live effectively within it. But that doesn't mean we want them to adopt worldly values.
Daniel and his friends were educated in the culture around them, but they kept their devotion to God at the center of their lives. They prayed, worshiped, and stayed true to their faith even when society demanded otherwise. Their devotion was lived out privately, and it made them different. We need to think about how we are educating our children on the culture around them—teaching them the ways of the world, yes, but also how to live out their faith in the midst of it.
As our children grow, they will need to navigate the complexities of the world. But they also need to know how to stand firm in their faith. God gave Daniel wisdom and knowledge that helped him to speak into the culture he was living in. He didn’t reject the culture, but he didn’t let it change who he was. He stood out as someone who understood the world but also understood the kingdom of God.
In today’s world, we want our children to understand how society works so they can speak into it. We don’t want them to hide away in fear but to boldly live out the truth of the kingdom. Like Daniel, they are called to influence and impact the world for the glory of God.
So how do we raise these “Daniels” in our homes today?
Teach them to understand the world around them. Help them navigate societal trends, government, culture, and the beliefs that shape our world. But make sure they understand God's truth as the foundation for everything.
Instill kingdom values. Just like Daniel’s refusal to bow to idols, encourage your children to put God first in all things, even when the world says differently.
Equip them to influence. Teach them that their faith isn't something to hide but something to boldly live out. Help them see how their unique gifts can be used to bring God's truth to those around them.
Partner with God in their development. Don’t try to do it on your own. Spend time with God, and He will give you the wisdom and knowledge needed to raise your children in a way that honors Him.
We are called to raise children who are wise in the ways of the world but who know how to stand apart for God. Just like Daniel, your children are meant to influence the world around them. So, mama, raise your Daniels with confidence. God has equipped you to do so, and He will give you everything you need to raise them according to His will.
Let’s equip our children with wisdom, courage, and a heart for God’s kingdom. The world needs their light!
