Speaking The Same Language

Speaking the Same Language

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

Psalm 19:14

What would you think about an invention that would ensure that your children would listen to and be influenced by only your family and those you trusted most in the world—folks with the same values as yours? Such a tool exists, and it is the Pennsylvania Dutch language. This language comes from a merging of dialects from the first Anabaptist immigrants to the United States.

Amish children learn Pennsylvania Dutch as their first language. It is the primary language spoken within an Amish home, the words of comfort and training. Children don’t learn English until they enter school in first grade. They might pick up a few words from hearing their parents interact with the outside world, but the first messages they receive are spoken only by those in their Amish community, those who love God and vow to follow Him.

I didn’t know that Amish children don’t speak English when I first visited an Amish home. I wondered why the young children watched me with interest and frowned as I spoke. They were trying to figure out what I was saying! It made me consider the words and influences I allow into my own home, with my own children.

Yes, it’s important to surround our children with people who “speak the same language” that we do—people who have the same beliefs, interests, and godly qualities. When our children see others in the world around them reading God’s Word, serving God, and sharing His truths, they discover a community of Christian fellowship. Following God becomes more than just a “Mom and Dad” thing. It becomes part of their identities.

What language do the children in your life hear? Ask God to help you provide words of comfort and training to the little ones you influence the most.

Dear heavenly Father, may my words today be pleasing to You, and may they positively influence the little ones You bring into my life. Amen.