Despite that tolerance, however, many in this country do in fact face religious persecution.  Perhaps the highest level of criticism affronts high school and college students.  By the time they are teenagers, kids are old enough, and independent enough, to start figuring out whether they truly believe in Jesus for themselves or if they have just gone along with what mom and dad believe.  Those with no background of faith and those deciding that their years growing up in the church were not meaningful tend to bully or pick on the students who are committed to their beliefs.  Christian students particularly face ridicule when taking a stand against swearing, drinking, drug use, and sexual activity.

As parents, we need to talk to our kids about persecution before they become teenagers.  Without getting graphic, we can say things like, “Today I read about a man who was hurt because he believes in Jesus.  Isn’t that sad?  Let’s say a prayer asking God to help him and thanking God that we live in a country that allows us to talk about God.”  When they enter the tween years, we can start giving more details about not only persecution around the world, but about how to stand up to it in their own lives.

Most importantly, however, is our concerted effort to teach our children to claim their own faith rather than simply hoping ours rubs off on them.  Teach them to pray on their own, not only when you are there.  I like to do this by tucking my kids in at night and saying a prayer with them, then suggesting as I leave the room, “Why don’t you tell God about your day while you go to sleep.”  Also encourage your kids to ask God for help during their struggles, no matter how minor those issues may seem, and to thank Him for their successes.

Finally, help your kids understand how the lessons of the Bible apply directly to their lives.  God’s truths come alive when children see how they work in “real life.”

The Bible tells us outright that we will face persecution, so it makes sense to be proactive and prepare kids to stand strong in the face of adversity.  Teach them about wearing the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) so they know they are ready for the battle.

Protector, we thank you that we live in a country offering religious freedom, however, we know we will sometimes face persecution.  We also know our children will face it as well.  Help us to prepare and strengthen our children to stand for You and Your truth.  Amen.