Teaching Children To Flourish In A “New Canada”  

Recently I have been asked by parents for suggestions on how to raise their children in our “New Canada”. What do they mean? They’re referring to the secularization of a nation that was once called Christian.  When a nation moves away from having God above country, the country inadvertently takes the role of God.  

This isn’t something new. Parents throughout history have wrestled with similar issues. As the world heads into uncharted territory with the advancement of technology and an increasing ideological divide, this is not a surprise to God. He has demonstrated His guidance for families, and in families, throughout history. 

5 Areas to Teach your Children: 

1. Know God.

The most important thing you can teach your children is to know Jesus personally. We don’t know every challenge and temptation are children face, but God does. Faith is a precious and powerful force in their lives. If they know and understand how to trust God, they will be delivered from the fiery furnaces of life as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were. These Hebrew boys were the brightest in the class when they were taken captive and subjected to a foreign culture, language, and schooling to be trained for an autocratic ruler. Yet, behind the scenes, praying parents had taught them how to trust God. Just as God was with these boys, He will be with your children! Daniel 11:32 tells us that “the people who do know their God shall be strong and do exploits.” 

For them to know God, listen to Moses’ advice. Deuteronomy 6:6-8, “Write these commandments that I’ve given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning to when you fall into bed at night.”  Firstly, God’s Word must be in our heart. Before we instruct them, we must practice what we believe.  

2. Know their country.

Jeremiah 29:7 says, “Promote the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it because your future depends on its welfare.” God expects us to know about the country we live in and prayerfully go about working for the country’s welfare. Help your children know about the land they live in. Don’t leave this up to their school.  

We can remain close to home without exploring our diverse and beautiful country. But God challenges us to be aware of our land and to pray for its protection and freedom. Our national anthem is a prayer asking God to “keep our land glorious and free.” Though our nation has drifted from its Christian heritage, it’s still in the roots of our great land. Yes, there have been mistakes, but the values of our Christian faith are at the core. 

Teach your children about Canadian history, the reasons behind immigration, the importance of praying and caring for Canada, rather than solely relying on government support. Encourage your children to realize their potential to contribute to her various resources.  

3. Know people skills.

Something that never changes is good people skills. Teach your children to relate with those who have different perspectives. These soft skills will help them establish rapport and navigate social situations. LinkedIn states 57% of leaders say soft skills are more important than hard skills. 

The Bible shows the importance of cultivating people skills. Proverbs is full of wisdom on interpersonal relationships. Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and the apostle Paul’s instructions in Romans 12:9-21 are more examples of practical guidance on how to treat others. 

Also, knowing multiple languages can be crucial for solving problems and seizing opportunities. History has shown those who possess linguistic versatility are better equipped to navigate new circumstances.  

4. Know their purpose.

Children must know their purpose, develop discipline and skill with their God given talents. Joseph and Daniel adapted in changing environments. Their commonality was the ability to work and use their skills. Parents, this includes your participation with repetitive instruction honing their skills. 

Psalm 127:4 says children are like arrows in the hands of a warrior. It is up to us to point these arrows in the direction of their gifting so they can hit the target of fulfillment. Proverbs 22:29 says, “Observe people who are good at their work— skilled workers are always in demand and admired; they don’t take a backseat to anyone.” 

5. Know finances. 

Financial literacy understands money is by no means our God, but a powerful tool to navigate challenges with financial wisdom. While children are young, train them to work, to tithe, be generous, to save, invest, and keep their eyes on God as their Provider.