Where Did Daniel Learn to Pray Like That?

The Role of Christian Books in Building Strong Character

Article by Peace Olaluwoye

Consider this: "Big companies have been pushing their agenda on our young minds for decades, If we don't counter them with faith-based books and entertainment, who will?"

As a Christian mother and Sunday School teacher, I’ve come to see that faith-based books play a vital role in helping children build strong character. We all want our kids to grow up with integrity, kindness, and resilience - qualities that will guide them through life’s challenges. I’ve found that Christian books are more than just stories; they’re tools that can shape young hearts and minds in ways that last a lifetime.

Which brings me back to the question: "Where did Daniel learn to pray like that?" And I'm guessing it was because he read a lot. He read the scrolls which contained God's words to the prophets of those days. Today, it's called the Bible and because he read those, he was able to keep himself attuned to God's plan.

Daniel outlived 3 kings and served on all their cabinets. He was wise and prayerful for a reason - the reason was the information he had accrued from studying God's word. Those were days of war and captivity, and Daniel dedicated his life to studying and prayer. These days are a bit different, which is why we need relatable stories to pass across the same messages of the Bible. Because although the settings change, the timing hasn't.

Jesus himself understood the importance of storytelling, and used those to pass across certain messages. He recognized that newbies to the faith needed these stories to make the scriptures relatable, and sensitize them to living for God.

Christian Books are a Foundation of Faith

When we read stories grounded in biblical values, our children see examples of how to live their faith in practical ways. Christian books allow us to reinforce these values with stories that resonate with young minds, laying a foundation that will help them stand firm in their beliefs.o

For example, one of my favorite books is titled, "Always Bee Kind." It tells the story of a bunch of bees that save the lives of 3 of their fellows who were rescued from a honey pot.

Kindness isn’t always an easy concept to teach, especially to a child who feel it's not their problem, but through the pages of that story, kids can clearly see the power and importance of empathy. By the end of the story, children will understand that kindness isn’t just something we do for others - it’s also a gift to ourselves, just as Jesus taught in the beatitudes, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." Matthew 5:7

Instilling Forgiveness and Compassion

Christian books often feature characters who go through struggles, disappointments, and moral dilemmas, just like the children reading them. These stories open up conversations about compassion and forgiveness, showing kids the value of letting go of past hurts and helping those in need.

One verse that has always resonated with me is Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” When my Sunday School class read the story about Ruth - a young widow from another country - who helped Naomi her widowed mother-in-law going through a difficult time, I noticed how the children connected with her kindness. It was like they suddenly understood that their small acts of kindness can make a big difference, and it inspired them to look for ways to help others.

Developing a Moral Compass

In today’s world, where children are often exposed to conflicting messages, having a moral compass grounded in faith is so important. Christian books give kids examples of right and wrong based on the Word of God. Stories about honesty, humility, and courage, for instance, help kids see that these values aren’t just rules - they’re ways to live out their faith.

One book we recently read in Sunday School highlighted a young Daniel and his equally young friends who had to choose between honesty and living a lie to satisfy their stomachs. They were in a faraway land and yet they chose to honour God in what they ate. The children saw the strength it takes to choose the right thing over convenience. As James 4:17 (ESV) says: "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin." 

Through this story, the children saw honesty as something to cherish and uphold, even when no one is living by those standards.

Teaching Perseverance Through Biblical Examples

The Bible is filled with stories of perseverance, but sometimes the old language can be hard for young kids to fully grasp. Christian books that simplify these stories or tell similar tales with modern-day parallels help children understand what perseverance really looks like. We recently read a book based on the story of Job, and it was incredible to see the children’s responses. They could relate to the main character's struggles and were inspired by his resilience and faithfulness.

Romans 5:3-4 says, "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." These words came alive for the children as they read about a character who kept his faith even when life seemed tough. They learned that perseverance is more than just enduring hard times; it’s about growing stronger in faith.

Creating a Habit of Faith-Based Reading

One of the greatest joys as a Christian parent and teacher is watching kids develop a love for books that teach them about God. When faith-based reading becomes a habit, it builds a foundation for lifelong learning and character development. Reading Christian books together can be a beautiful way to bond as a family, and it also helps children become familiar with the values we hold dear.

As Deuteronomy 11:19 instructs us, “Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” When we read Christian books with our children, we’re following this command to teach God’s word in every aspect of life. It’s not just reading; it’s a time to discuss, reflect, and understand what it means to live out our faith.

Building Confidence and Identity in Christ

Finally, Christian books help children see themselves as part of God’s plan. They learn that they are loved, valued, and capable of great things through His strength. When children read stories about others who rely on God, it reinforces their identity in Christ and builds confidence rooted in something unshakeable.

One of the most powerful things I’ve seen is how these stories give children the courage to be themselves and stand up for their beliefs. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” When kids see characters leaning on God, it teaches them that their strength also comes from Him. They’re reminded that they are never alone and that their faith can guide them through any challenge.

As a mother and Sunday School teacher, I can honestly say that Christian books have been one of the most effective ways to teach my children and students about the values that matter most. These books are more than just words on a page; they’re seeds planted in the hearts of our children, helping them grow into kind, compassionate, and faithful people. When we give them stories that reinforce biblical values, we’re giving them a gift that will last a lifetime.❤️🤗🪴