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Belief in God Makes Kids Happy
By Christina Quick | February 27, 2008
A new study offers proof that belief in God is important for a child’s happiness.
The Canadian study from the University of British Columbia asked kids ages 9 to 12 to rate the importance of such statements as: “I believe a higher power watches over me.”
The researchers compared each child’s answers with parents’ and teachers’ assessments of his or her overall happiness. Kids who had a strong inner belief system were happier than those who did not.
The researchers concluded that spirituality accounts for 17 percent of the average child’s sense of happiness. By contrast, they calculated, wealth accounts for less than one percent.
“What we found out with kids is they know how wealthy they are,” researcher Mark Holder said. “They are well aware of how rich their parents are, but it contributes to less than one percent of children’s happiness.”
It’s good to know some things are more important than exotic family vacations and four-car garages.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” (Deuteronomy 6:5-7).
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