As parents, we expect to guide our kids in life, not the other way around. So when your child comes to you and says, “I believe in Jesus,” it can catch you off guard. You might feel proud of their conviction—but also uncertain, confused, or even uncomfortable if you’re not sure where you stand with faith yourself.
For some parents, that uncertainty feels more like curiosity. For others, it may feel like doubt, skepticism, or even frustration—especially if you’ve already decided you don’t believe in God. Wherever you find yourself, you’re not alone. Many parents wrestle with faith while trying to support their kids in it.
The good news is you don’t have to have it all figured out right now. In fact, this moment can be an opportunity—not just for your child’s faith to grow, but for you to process your own questions and beliefs in a new way.
How to Walk With Your Child in Faith (Even If You’re Still Figuring It Out)
If your child has become a Christian, supporting them doesn’t require perfect answers or unshakable faith. It simply means showing up with love, curiosity, and openness—even if you’re doubtful, skeptical, or just not sure what you believe. Along the way, you may even discover more about yourself and your own perspective on faith.
Celebrate Their Belief
Even if you’re not certain what faith in Jesus looks like—or you don’t share their belief at all—recognize the sincere and meaningful choice your child has made. When they share their belief, they’re letting you into something deeply personal. Celebrate their decision with love and encouragement. Let them know how much they matter to you.
Stay Curious, Not Critical
You don’t need to have all the answers about God or Christianity. What matters most is creating space for your child to share. Ask them questions like:
- “What does believing in Jesus mean to you?”
- “What made you want to take this step?”
Their perspective might surprise you—and it may even help you as you think through your own questions about faith.
Explore Faith With Them
You don’t have to be “all in” on faith to explore it with your child. Even if you’re skeptical, choosing to lean in with curiosity shows your child that you respect their beliefs and want to understand them better.
At LCBC, you’re always welcome to explore faith with no strings attached—whether you’re searching, doubting, or convinced you don’t believe. Here are some ways to do that with your child:
Faith Can Be A Shared Journey!
When your child says they believe in Jesus, it doesn’t have to push you further apart. It can actually open a door for conversation, curiosity, and maybe even for healing past frustrations with religion. You may not be sure what you believe about Jesus right now, but keeping an open heart allows you to walk this journey together.
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💡 Wrestling with doubts about faith, Jesus, or Christianity? Check out The Evidence – a podcast series where we dive into the biggest questions about faith and uncover real, reliable answers.
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LCBC stands for Lives Changed By Christ. We are one church in multiple locations across Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you or join us for Church Online. We can’t wait to connect with you!