Life is full of teachable moments, each one unique, each one holding the potential to teach, inspire, and transform. But as Oneness Apostolic parents, how often do we recognize these moments for what they truly are? From the seemingly mundane events, like someone cutting you off on the road, to the awe-inspiring sights of nature, like an eagle soaring majestically against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, every day is filled with teachable moments that provide opportunities to impart wisdom, values, faith, and a love and wonder of God to our children.
“And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” –
-Deuteronomy 6:7
God, in His divine foresight, understood the significance of guiding the young. This is profoundly echoed in Proverbs 22:6, which instructs us to, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Share on X
This verse serves as a type and shadow of God’s broader design, emphasizing the importance of early instruction and its lasting impact. Drawing from this wisdom, God provided Israel with a system of rituals and festivals, notably the Passover. We read in Exodus 13:1-16 about how Israel was instructed to create an occasion each year that would offer a reason for older generations to pass on their history through these life lessons. These were not just mere ceremonies or rituals; but rather they were meticulously crafted teachable moments, designed to impart knowledge, faith, and a sense of identity, ensuring that the teachings would resonate through generations via community traditions.
In today’s fast-paced digital age, the question often arises: what are teachable moments?
These are the unplanned opportunities that life presents to impart wisdom, values, or lessons. As many of us get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, rituals and traditions can easily be overlooked or dismissed as outdated. However, discerning parents recognize their timeless essence and value. These practices serve as beacons in our tumultuous world, anchoring our children in faith, values, and a sense of belonging, even amid constant change.
Pentecostal Publishing House is deeply committed to supporting families in their faith journey. One of their premier resources is the Family Devotional. This beautifully crafted devotional is more than just a book; it’s a bridge connecting families with the Word of God. Designed for weekly reflections and discussions, it offers insights, passages of Scripture, and thought-provoking questions that spark meaningful conversations, helping families find and make the most of teachable moments.
An essential read for parents navigating the journey of instilling faith in their children is Because I Belong to Jesus by Lee Ann Alexander.
This book delves into the practical aspects of living out our faith and the Bible’s specific call to be holy as God is holy. It’s not just about beliefs; it’s about actions, choices, and daily decisions. Through engaging activities and biblical insights, this book guides readers in understanding how the Bible shapes our daily lives.
Another invaluable resource for parents and educators alike is the book Teaching to Transform Hearts. This insightful guide not only underscores the paramount importance of reviving the teaching ministry within the church but also challenges us to critically evaluate our current teaching methods and their effectiveness. 
The book is a trove of strategies aimed at infusing new life into our church classrooms, adhering to Jesus’ foundational call to “go therefore and make disciples . . . teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20, NKJV). By embracing the wisdom and practical approaches outlined in this book, we can significantly enhance our ability to nurture and develop the spiritual lives of our children and teens, ensuring that the teachings of the faith are not just taught but are also lived and experienced in every aspect of their lives. Though the primary audience is for classroom teachers, parents can easily glean insights for use within the home.
For younger members of the family, embark on delightful adventures with Trudy and Candy, two characters brought to life by author Sara Rowland. The pages of these books bring to life the essence of teachable moments through delightfully colorful and engaging stories. In Trudy and the Cupcake of the Month Contest, we meet Trudy, a little girl who finds herself in a fun, yet competitive situation, offering parents a sweet opportunity to teach their children about healthy competition, kindness, and the joy found in participating rather than just winning. On the other hand, Candy and the Perfect Window Display not only tells a charming story of Candy trying to create a beautiful window display without following the Master Baker’s instructions, but also offers a coloring book to make the story interactive and fun for kids while reinforcing the principles of modesty from I Peter 3. Both stories, deeply rooted in scriptural principles like Proverbs 3:5–6, provide ample opportunities for parents to explore and explain the importance of following God’s way and the adventures that can be found in everyday activities, making them perfect resources for creating those invaluable teachable moments.
In the midst of our busy lives, we can find extraordinary stories of faith in seemingly ordinary moments, much like the narratives found in Heroes Just Like You by Barbara Westberg. This inspiring book, also available at the Pentecostal Publishing House, unfolds the childhood stories of contemporary heroes of our faith, illustrating that heroes aren’t always in capes but can be found in the everyday people around us. The stories delve into the lives of children who have battled against significant odds such as bullying, the loss of parents, and physical disabilities, showcasing the magnificent power of God to help us overcome our limitations and transform into whoever He calls us to be. Celebrating the lives and faith of individuals like Allan Oggs, Benjamin Urshan, and Carrie Eastridge, this book not only provides a beacon of inspiration but also serves as a reminder of Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” It’s a testament that every child, amid struggles and triumphs, has the potential to be a hero, embodying teachable moments that echo through time.
But having the right resources is just the beginning. Being a parent, a guide, and a mentor requires presence, engagement, and a genuine desire to nurture our children’s spiritual growth. It’s about being there for them, ready to answer their questions, share in their wonder, and explore the mysteries of faith together.
Children grow up in the blink of an eye. One moment they're taking their first steps, and the next, they're stepping out into the world on their own. But the lessons we impart, the values we instill, and the faith we nurture will remain… Share on XSo as we journey through life, let’s be vigilant. Let’s recognize and seize every teachable moment. Parenting is hard, but with the valuable resources available from the Pentecostal Publishing House, you have a steadfast partner, ready to support and enrich your journey of faith and parenting.
In every fleeting moment lies an opportunity, a lesson, and a memory. Let’s cherish them, learn from them, and pass them on to the next generation, always remembering Proverbs 22:6 as your guiding principle.