To raise godly children—the Bible way—is to intentionally and scripturally coach (train) your offspring (disciple) to know, love, and obey God by living lives that display His character and accomplish His mission. A systematic training system called biblical parenting or Christian child training follows Godly principles as taught in both the Old and New Testaments. This article studies the spiritual building blocks of how to:
- Develop spiritual discipline and family practices that foster faith;
- Realize Christian parenting: parental modeling of Christ-like character;
- Determine environmental influence on spiritual formation; and,
- Prepare children for life-long faith.
This information provides insight into how parents can accomplish their God-given responsibility of raising Godly offspring.
What Are Some Biblical Guidelines For Raising Godly Children?
The biblical foundation of principles for raising godly children have been established and determine a divine system of parental responsibility and work in the home. These teachings claim that parenting is a spiritual undertaking with eternal dividends. There is a foundational spiritual truth to the fact that children are a heritage from the Lord (Ps. 127:3) and that they are a gift from God to be temporarily placed under parental guardianship. This viewpoint influences all aspects of child development.
What Are Some Things That Can Serve As A Guide For Children Spiritually?
The foundational spiritual tenets for training children in the Scriptures are continual and purposeful instruction and teaching. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7 it’s an instruction from God to the parents to impress His commandments upon their children to talk of them while sitting at home, walking down the road, while going to bed, and as they rise up. This principle suggests that the teaching of faith is not confined to a lesson but permeates all of life. It focuses on on-going spiritual conversation and biblical truth being woven through every aspect of life. This includes moms and dads emphasizing God’s character, His laws, and His acts to their kids over and over during common, routine activities such as mealtime, car trips, bedtime. For instance, during an amazing sunset, parents may talk about God’s creative ability. They can tell of God’s faithfulness and provision in the midst of a challenge. This daily teaching makes sure that children hear and absorb biblical truth on a regular basis.
Another principle is that parents practice faith and model it continuously. Ps 78:6-7 states, That the generation to come might know [them], [even] the children [which] should be born; [who] should arise and declare [them] to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. That understanding is not just by explanation but by observation. Children see their parents’ lives. By the way fathers live out their beliefs, simply trusting the Lord in times of trial, enjoying His presence and intentionally practicing their spirituality, sets a living example for their children. For example, if a parent prays out loud with the family concerning daily needs, or about thanks for specific prayers getting answered, a child knows what inconsequentiality or neediness or dependence before God really looks like. They see faith at work in everyday life. This is consistent modeling that precedes spoken word for forming a solid picture of what Christian living looks like.
A third basic principle is reliance on God alone. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells people to trust the Lord with all their hearts and not on their own understanding, to recognize Him in all His ways so He can guide their paths. The same is true in parenting. Parents know they can’t change their child’s heart or bear spiritual fruit alone. God alone changes hearts. And so, parents are forced to pray passionately for their children, depending on God’s wisdom for every decision and His strength for every obstacle. What it means is they raise their children believing that true security and guidance in life come from God, not from human wisdom or strength. For example, if children confront difficulties or are tempted to sin, alternatives to their own reasoning can be encouraged by parents in leading them to God’s advice via prayer and Scripture. This helps children to see their deep dependence on their Creator.
What Does The Bible Say About Disciplining Children?
The Bible speaks about disciplining children as an act of love and is for correction, instruction and character building. For he that spareth the rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. (Proverbs 13:24). This verse tells us that even a father’s love includes discipline. So discipline is not about punishing, taking revenge on children as if they were enemies, or torturing them. Discipline is about training, for what is right and against what is wrong, to possibly save them from harmful ways. And, Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; the rod of discipline will remove it far from him (Proverbs 22:15). This “rod” is understood as an instrument of correction, the sign of authority and the guidance of the shepherd, not simply the actual rod used to inflict pain. It suggests a structured, consistent response to disobedience or foolish behavior, to keep it from becoming habitual.
The first two aspects of Biblical discipline are correction and teaching. As Proverbs 29:15 states, “The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” This means that the parents are invited to be a ‘deciding influence for good upon a child’s direction and moral sense. All discipline is essentially:
- The setting of limits and boundaries for a child’s behavior,
- The explanation of the consequences of a child’s behavior, and
- The consistent follow-through on those boundaries.
When a child flouts a clear command, for example, there’s a consequence — a loss of a privilege, or a time of quiet reflection. The point in this action is not only to break the behavior but to teach the child to respect authority, personal accountability, and that actions have consequences. It involves verbal correction, reasoning with the child, and teaching them alternative, scriptural ways to respond.
There should be love and tenderness in discipline. Colossians 3:21 says, Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they don’t become discouraged. And, Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). These scriptures warn against rough, arbitrary, or excessive punishment that would break a child’s spirit. Revenge discipline, punishment with no explanation, will only cause resentment and discouragement rather than repentance and change. Consequently, parents implement discipline in a very non-threatening way and lovingly express a wish for what’s best for the child. One example would be to:
- Talk to a child quietly (after they have broken a rule),
- Explain to them what rule was broken,
- Why the rule is in place,
- What the consequence is, and then
- MAKE SURE that the child feels loved — even when being re-directed.
This strategy allows the bond between parent and child to remain intact without, however, the misbehavior being ignored.
The goal of discipline, as in Hebrews 12:7-11, is divine instruction for righteousness. In these verses human discipline is contrasted with God’s – When God chastens His children – He does so for their welfare – it may not be comfortable at the moment- yet it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it, i.e.,. This makes it evident that the end result of discipline is to develop a godly character and spiritual growth in the child. It teaches children self-discipline, respect for authority, and an inner moral compass that aligns with God’s Word. It is designed to motivate them to be a life-long God-obeying people. For more detailed advice on this subject, see [understanding biblical principles of discipline].
What Are Some Activities That Help Children Build Faith?
Certain disciplines help build faith in kids, which makes spiritual growth natural and consistent. One great way to do that is through family worship. Joshua 24:15 says, But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. This is a declaration of commitment to God for everyone in the house. Family worship can take many different forms and activities from reading through a passage of Scripture and singing hymns or worship songs, to teaching biblical truth, or praying together as a family. For example a family might read through a passage in the Bible, take 15-20 minutes and consider what it means, and then pray together about specific concerns or gratitude. This weekly spiritual discipline enhances a biblical zeal and a corporate culture of worship in the home.
In addition, another regular practice is that of fervent prayer. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 instructs believers to pray without ceasing. This is true in the parenting realm as well, by praying for parents and training children to pray. Parents need to pray concerning all aspects of their children’s spiritual formation: wisdom to lead them and a hedge of protection around them. They also help children learn to pray by example and through instruction, encouraging them to talk to God about anything and everything, from mundane daily tasks to deep spiritual confusion. For example, trying to teach a young child a simple prayer of thanks before meals, or when an older child knows a friend is struggling, teach and encourage her (on her own, or with you) to pray for her friend. This develops a habit of communication with God that proves His approachability.
Bible memory and study are also important disciplines. Psalm 119:11 says, I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). Training children in scripture memory equips them with an internal compass for good and a source of comfort. In addition to rote recitation, parents assist their children in Bible study that involves reading, interpreting, and applying the Word of God to their lives. This might mean reading age-appropriate Bibles, devotionals and doing topical studies. For example, parents might assist a child in memorizing a verse about striving to be kind to their siblings when they’re struggling with sibling rivalry, or lead them through a Bible story that illustrates how God is faithful. It gives children a personal connection to biblical truth.
Active church participation is another important activity. Hebrews 10:25 says, Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Attending a sound Bible believing church, being a part of Sunday school, youth group, and church events helps children feel a part of the family of God. This is to provide more spiritual teaching, fellowship with other believers, and service. Children see the importance of corporate worship, receive instruction from multiple godly adults and realize different aspects of faith in the Body of Christ. Children see adults serving in ministries at church, leading worship, and on mission, further expanding them to “it” on church life. Such an exposure is the social dimension of faith.
How Are Parents An Example In Building Christ-Like Character Within Their Children?
It is the daily life, the words and acts of the parents that exemplify Christ-like character to the children, and not only so, the virtues of Christ. One of the most basic qualities to model is absolute love. Scripture, John 13:34-35, says, “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” You see this warmth reflected in parents who exhibit love via a sacrificial investment of time and ongoing affection, discipline and correction, patience and forgiveness, while setting aside their own desires for the sake of their children’s best interests. For example, the love parents have when they kindly repeat an explanation time and again – even when they have no energy to do so – or the instantaneous forgiveness of a child’s error. This love looks like God’s unfailing love and forms a firm base for a child’s emotional and spiritual formation.
Humility is the other necessary attribute to imitate. Philippians 2:3-4 tells us to do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility to count others more significant than ourselves, not only looking to our own interests, but also to the interests of others. If a parent makes a mistake, he or she should admit it and seek forgiveness, and listen to the child’s side of the story. It might be the wrong or right thing, or an irritable word that we regret saying to our child, and so we go say to our child we’re sorry, because everyone makes mistakes and we need God’s grace. This helps children understand their need for self-reflection, repentance, and dependence on God’s grace versus humanity’s ability to be perfect.
A third character trait that is necessary for parental modeling is forgiveness. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone (Colossians 3:13). Parents also provide an example of forgiveness by giving grace to their children when they err, reconciling differences and teaching them how to forgive others. For example, following a sibling conflict, parents can lead a conversation in which each child shares his or her hurt and is offered forgiveness, reflecting how God forgives sin. It’s a life lesson about the liberating power of forgiveness, and the necessity of reconciliation in relationships.
Service is also another dimension of Christ-like personality. The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). Parents teach service by serving others, volunteering in their community or church and taking practical care of those in need. This could mean anything from parents serving a meal at a local shelter, to lending an elderly neighbor a helping hand, to giving to a family in crisis. When children see Mom and Dad willingly sacrificing their time, resources, or talents to help someone else in need, they see the joy and value in being a servant, and they develop a heart of compassion, and a willingness to make sacrifices. This leads to a world view that values others before oneself.
How Does Environment Impact The Spiritual Growth Of Children?
The conditions growing up are the work of God through parents, on children’s hearts, shaping beliefs, values, and behaviors. The home environment is the child’s main spiritual habitat. Proverbs 22:6 states, Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. This training takes place in the daily habits, conversations, and values of the home. A household characterized by peace, honor and open discussion in matters of faith is nourishing. On the other hand, a household with constant quarreling, disrespect, or lack of spiritual communication can suppress spiritual growth. For instance, when parents practice speaking well of God and exercising patience under pressure, the home becomes a living out embodiment of the goodness of the Bible. Then if the home is a place where a family worships together, prays, and treats each other with respect, these become part of a child’s spiritual roots.
Community and friendships are a heavy factor for spiritual growth in children too. Proverbs 13:20 says, He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. This highlights the influence of a child’s peer group and larger community on their spiritual journey. Parents are encouraged to help children make friends with other children who hold to similar values and who have a love of God and to find communities that reinforce Biblical values. Positive factors include encouraging attendance to a church youth group or associating with other families with strong faith. Children will learn from, if not come to hold, the values of their peers, which will in turn either supplement or challenge what is taught at home. And this deliberate selection of community is a spiritual support network.
It is the constant exposure to the truth of the Bible in many ways that creates a spiritual atmosphere for a child. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). So too does creating an atmosphere saturated with the truth of the Bible: having Bibles scattered everywhere, listening to Christian music (or Christian podcasts), watching good Christian media, discussing current events through a biblical point of view. And Christian books and music, for instance as well as regular storytime and singing about Bible truths offer a steady flow of divine revelation. This daily marinating in the Word of God develops a biblical perspective of life and an awareness of spiritual things.
How Can Parents Prepare Kids For Spiritual Independence And A Lasting Faith?
Parents train kids for spiritual autonomy and a lifetime of faith by teaching them to distinguish between truth and error and by nurturing a child’s personal relationship with God. Preparing children to be discerners helps them make their way through biblically fraught matters of life. And there is a passage of Scripture in the book of Hebrews that says that solid food, that is, mature teachings, is for those who because of practice have had their senses trained to be able to discern good from evil (Hebrews 5:14). Parents train children in critical thinking based upon Scripture, so that they can think biblically about ideas, media, and friendships. For example, when a child encounters an opposing view of the world at school or when watching something on TV or social media, a parent should help that child to contrast things with biblical truth—why some things do align or do not align with the Word of God. This teaching gives your child the tools needed to make righteous decisions that are rooted in the word of God and not peer pressure or rising fads in culture.
It is the cultivation of an individualized relationship with God! Jeremiah 29:13 assures us, You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Parents need to make sure children know that their family’s faith is not just a cultural left-over from an earlier generation but a living and active connection to the living God. That means promoting personal prayer, private study of the Bible and journaling their spiritual development. This may involve giving kids their own Bible and inviting them to read on their own or sharing one’s reflections on God’s faithfulness from their own personal life. Parents enable this personal connection by providing opportunities for quiet, time alone, promoting the practice of personal devotions, and explaining how God is at work in their own lives, making the children’s personal relationship with God real and personal.
Furthermore, spiritual gifts and service can be developed early and set in motion the process of establishing faith for life. Each of you has received a gift to use for the benefit of others. So use your gifts to serve each other, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms (1 Peter 4:10). Parents assist children in recognizing their spiritual gifts and offer opportunities to use them in serving God and others through the church and the community. This might be a child with the gift of hospitality to greet new visitors at church or a child with musical giftedness to serve in worship. When kids make the connection between what they’ve been given and serving others, they learn the joy of contributing to God’s kingdom—and are drawn more deeply into a lifetime commitment to their faith. This active involvement solidifies where they belong in their plan of God.
What Are The Goals Of Parenting As A Christian?
The most important goals of Christian parenting are disciple-making, character development, and helping children live lives that glorify God. These are the goals leading today’s parents to nurture children who love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love their neighbors as themselves, reflecting the Greatest Commandment. This even extends into your child’s spiritual growth, to that they can have their own strong faith in Jesus Christ, following Him. Another is to instill in them a godly character that is characterized by such things as honesty, kindness, meekness, and self-restraint. This focus on character allows children to face life’s challenges from a biblical perspective. The end goal is to help kids see how they fit into God’s big story and to live their lives as a response to Him, loving others and building into His kingdom. These goals prepare children to live not just on earth, but in eternity with their Maker.
What The Bible Says About Favoritism Between Children.
The Bible prohibits partiality among children, as illustrated by various stories and lessons. Such for example were Jacob’s preference for Joseph, which brought much discord among his sons and resulted in Joseph’s slavery. Partiality is discouraged in James 2:1-4, with the assertion that God is not a respecter of persons. And some are learning to treat all the children fairly, based on their individual needs and strengths, without showing favoritism.
How Does A Single Mom Raise Godly Men In Their Biblical Role?
By the grace of God, a godly single parent home is one that is raised by a single parent who depends on God’s strength and provisions for her (himself) which in fact is no different than what every parent does as all parents are dependent on Him. God’s grace is sufficient. I feel that the overarching principles of teaching God’s Word, modelling faith, praying for your children and seeking good council from other believers are the same. The Bible is full of verses expressing the heart of God for widows and orphans, that if he paid extra close attention to the child and mother who had lost their provider, then – most likely – He still provides in a special way for single parent families. For instance, extended family and church members can be additional supports and godly influences.
What Does The Bible Say About Screen Time/Media With Children?
Here’s advice from scripture on how to monitor our children’s exposure to noxious media and screen time. Philippians 4:8 says we are to think about what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. Parents should review media in light of biblical principles, restrict access to destructive or degrading material, and seek activities that promote spiritual, intellectual, and physical growth. This means establishing guidelines around the (1) how much time, and (2) what type content to use.
What Does The Bible Say About Education For Children?
Also, the Bible gives general principles for the training of children, not clear institutional guidance. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 says to pass on God’s Word to your children, so at its core, parents are responsible for the education of faith. The principle is one that guides that educational choices must be those that promote an environment which upholds biblical truth and values in conjunction with strong parental discipling; be it homeschooling, private Christian schools, or supportive public schools.
How Are Parents To Deal With Older (Late Teens) Rebellion In The Bible?
A proper response to natural vicissitudes for a rebellious older child is for parents to use the Bible’s strategy of multiple tools (prayer, loving confrontation, righteous boundaries, consequence) and to LET GO of what is beyond them, which contrary to the Proverbs is sometimes necessary! Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him (Proverbs 22:15) (“Child” can mean son and so can refer to adults, and “foolishness” suggests foolish refusal to respond to God positively.) Parents still teach the Word of God, convey unconditional love while not endorsing sin, invite wisdom from church leaders, and trust in God’s authority over the child. This is not a quick fix but takes time and patience.
What Is A Biblical Perspective On Whether Children Inherit Faith?
The Bible portrays faith as something children do not automatically inherit, but as a personal decision and a gift from God. Although we are directed as parents to teach our children in the ways of the Lord (Prov. 22:6), each individual must answer God’s call and accept His gift of salvation. Spiritual legacy is passed through generations by modeling and teaching from parents, but personal faith is a response to the Spirit.
