At some point, a child who has grown up hearing about Jesus may ask a question that catches you completely off guard. “How do we know God is real?” “Why didn’t God answer my prayer?” “What if the Bible is wrong?” You might feel an immediate need to produce the perfect answer. And if you don’t have one, you may worry that something has gone terribly wrong.
I actually think questions can be a healthy part of developing faith. A child can repeat what they’ve been taught for years without ever deciding what they believe. Questions are often a sign that they’re beginning to think for themselves. Our job isn’t to protect them from every difficult question. It’s to help them discover that faith in Jesus can be explored honestly.
Don’t Make Questions Feel Dangerous
One of Nuvo’s values is Skeptics Welcome. We believe people should have room to bring their questions, doubts, and full selves into the journey of faith. That needs to be true in our homes, too. If your child asks something difficult and your first response is fear, anger, or disappointment, they may learn that questions are safer somewhere else. You don’t have to celebrate every conclusion they reach, but you can welcome the conversation.
Try saying, “That’s a really good question. What made you start thinking about that?” You may discover that the theological question is connected to something personal. Maybe a friend challenged them. Maybe they experienced disappointment. Maybe they watched someone who claimed to follow Jesus behave in a hurtful way. Understanding the question behind the question is often more important than rushing to provide an answer.
Model an Honest Faith
In Mark 9, a father comes to Jesus with a desperate need and says, “I believe; help my unbelief.” I’ve always appreciated that honesty. He brings both faith and struggle into the same conversation. Parents can model something similar. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know the answer to that yet, but I’d love to explore it with you.” Then actually explore it. Read Scripture together. Talk with a trusted pastor. Look at thoughtful Christian resources and consider objections fairly.
Don’t confuse confidence with pretending to know everything. Your child needs to see that your faith is anchored in Jesus, not in your ability to win every debate. And remember that their spiritual journey isn’t yours to control. You can teach, pray, invite, and model a compelling life of faith. You cannot force someone into a transformational relationship with Jesus.
Putting This Into Practice
1Ask what they’re wondering about.
Choose a relaxed moment and ask, “What’s one thing about God or church you wish you understood better?” Thank them for being honest, even if the answer surprises you.
2Investigate one question together.
Write it down. Read a relevant Bible passage, find a thoughtful resource, or ask someone knowledgeable. Agree that neither of you needs to pretend the question is simpler than it is.
3Let your life reinforce your words.
Identify one way you can demonstrate faith through humility, generosity, forgiveness, or service this week. Children notice whether following Jesus changes how we actually live.
