In the earlier parts of this message, we heard God’s heart: “Do not hinder the little ones from coming to Me” (Mark 10:14). Parents were reminded that children are not too young to serve God, and their decision to be baptized is not a mistake but a fulfillment of God’s purpose.

Now the focus must shift:

What Next After Baptism?

How do you, as a parent or guardian, help your child grow in their faith? Baptism is not the end — it’s the beginning of discipleship.

1. Lead By Example at Home

Children learn more by watching than by listening. If you want your child to grow strong in their walk with Christ, you must live as an example of prayer, faith, and obedience.

• Make family devotions part of your daily rhythm (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).

• Let your children see you reading your Bible and depending on God in daily choices.

• Be quick to repent and quick to forgive, modeling humility.

Remember: your home is the first church your child will ever know.

2. Teach Them the Word of God

After baptism, children need spiritual food. Just as you wouldn’t let your child go days without physical meals, you cannot let their spirit go hungry.

• Read and explain scripture at their level. (For example: read the story of David and Goliath and ask them what “giants” they face in school or in life.)

• Memorize verses together — start small, like Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

• Encourage journaling or drawing about what they learn in devotions.

3. Involve Them in Church Life

Serving helps children discover their gifts. Don’t let them just sit back after baptism. Encourage them to:

• Join the choir, dance team, or children’s ministry.

• Read scripture in service or pray aloud.

• Serve with you in outreach projects or acts of kindness.

Their involvement strengthens their faith and keeps them connected to the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27).

4. Cover Them in Prayer Daily

Baptized children face spiritual battles just as adults do — sometimes even more so. The enemy knows their potential. Parents must become intercessors for their children.

Pray for:

• Protection from negative influences and peer pressure.

• Wisdom in school and friendships.

• The gifts of the Spirit to be stirred up in them (2 Timothy 1:6).

• A heart that continually seeks God.

5. Talk Openly About Faith and Struggles

As children grow, they will have questions, doubts, and temptations. Create an environment where they feel safe to talk.

• Ask: “How are you feeling about your walk with God?”

• Share testimonies from your own life to show faith is a journey.

• Listen more than you speak. Sometimes your presence is the answer.

6. Affirm Their Identity in Christ

Children today are bombarded with confusion about identity, worth, and belonging. As a parent, you must constantly remind them:

• They are children of God (John 1:12).

• They are chosen and set apart (Jeremiah 1:5).

• God has great plans for their lives (Jeremiah 29:11).

Encourage them to speak affirmations daily: “I am loved. I am chosen. I am God’s child.”

7. Guard Their Environment

What your children watch, listen to, and the friends they keep will shape their spiritual growth.

• Monitor media and online activity with love, not fear.

• Guide them in choosing friends who encourage rather than corrupt. (1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits.”)

• Fill their environment with worship, scripture, and encouragement.

A Final Word

Parents, your role is not to control your child’s walk with God but to nurture it. You are gardeners in the vineyard of the Lord, watering the seeds of faith planted at baptism. God will cause the growth, but He uses your love, guidance, and prayers as part of the process.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6, NKJV)

Your obedience to nurture your child’s faith will not only bless them but will overflow blessings into your household. Their walk with God can be the very key to your family’s breakthrough.