Train Up A Child
- Charlie Brown
- Sep 1, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 2, 2025
As a young boy, I recall preparing for church every Sunday. My dad would apply "Vitalis hair tonic" to my hair, and it would trickle down my forehead onto my face. I think it kept my hair in place for nearly three weeks -- longer if I didn't mess it up with my Little League ball cap! The tonic made my eyes water due to its 90% alcohol content. Perhaps that's why I've never been much of a drinker.
I was very blessed that my mom and dad took my sister and I to Church every Sunday morning. They didn't just "drop us off." We all attended as a family and were dressed in our Sunday-best. It was a small sweet Church with an average attendance of 50 to 75 people per Sunday.
Bill, our young volunteer teacher, was a positive role model and influence in my life as well as the others in the class. His mentorship had a lasting impact on me!
Our teachers demonstrated the values and behavior so important to children in their early formative ages. But the main thing the teachers reflected was their love for each of us.
Our Church Sunday School Class provided a safe nurturing space where we could express ourselves freely, ask questions and explore our faith without feeling judged or out of place.
I didn't realize it at the time but being in church and Sunday School every week was a strong base for my character today, showing me the importance of kindness, honesty and love. Having your children in Church gives them early exposure to biblical teachings which helps them develop a strong moral compass.
We would participate in group activities including songs like Jesus Loves Me which was always one of my favorites. These creative ways helped us express our faith in diverse ways, so we looked forward to each Sunday!
Children’s church is more than just a place for kids to go while the adults attend the main service. It’s a vital part of a child’s spiritual development, offering countless benefits that extend far beyond the church doors.
On a personal note: As I grew older, I made many poor choices and strayed from my faith. I attempted to live life on my own terms, but God never abandoned me. Through His Grace, God continually guided me back to my roots.
Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6
