A Christian parent cannot control what their child is being taught in the other home. Unless it’s illegal or abusive, the other parent can teach the child whatever they desire. A wise course of action is to become educated on the belief system your child is learning. Explore how and why it’s different from Christianity. Some religions will be easier to understand than others.

Don’t turn the new knowledge into a disagreement, weapon, or debate. Aim to be schooled on what the child is learning in the other home. Most Christians are not well informed about other religions or current spiritual trends. The temptation to be “right” and to prove why the other belief system is wrong will be powerful. Remember, Jesus didn’t try to prove that he was accurate. He presented the truth calmly and clearly and let the people decide. The kids will observe the Christian parent’s actions, responses, and listening abilities.

Calmly ask age-appropriate questions. “Do you understand that when Jesus says He is the only way to heaven, it means He loves us so much that He shows us how to get there? Would you want to know for sure where you are going when you die? If Jesus is who He says He is, would you want to know it?”

And then share, “Every day, I’m learning more about how to love like Jesus does. I’m not perfect, but He is teaching me. As your dad/mom, sometimes that includes doing things or sharing things you won’t understand. Don’t ever question my love for you just because your mom/dad and I don’t have the same view and relationship with God. I long for you to know Jesus the way I do, and I pray daily for that to happen. I pray for your mom/dad too. But no matter what, my love for you is unconditional. You are my son/daughter, and I love you completely.”

There may be times when a conflict can’t be avoided. If the other parent is involving the child in a cult or a dangerous setting, the Christian parent must be alert and get legal advice.

We must remember that the Holy Spirit has the power to reach our kids, even if they live in two homes. He works in ways we do not understand. The praying parent has power. The situation isn’t hopeless. Our job is to be so hidden in Christ that when our child observes us in the day-to-day living, they see Jesus. The Christian home should be a haven where there are boundaries fueled by love, respect, and simplicity.

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3