By Lesallan – July 14th, 2023
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
King James Version (KJV)
As a parent, you may wonder what the Bible says about raising your children right. How can you apply the timeless wisdom of God’s word to the challenges and joys of parenting in the modern world? In this blog post, we will explore some of the biblical principles and examples that can guide you as you seek to raise godly children who love and honor the Lord.
The Bible teaches that children are a gift from God and a blessing to their parents. Psalm 127:3 says, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” As such, parents are responsible for caring for, nurturing, and training their children in the ways of the Lord. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This means that parents should teach their children the truth of God’s word, the importance of obeying his commands, and the joy of knowing and serving him.
One of the ways that parents can train their children is by setting a good example for them. Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear. Therefore, parents should model godly character, behavior, and attitudes in their own lives. They should also show love, respect, and kindness to their spouse, their children, and others. Ephesians 5:1-2 says, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Parents should also pray for their children and with their children, demonstrating their dependence on God and their gratitude for his grace.
Another way that parents can train their children is by disciplining them when they do wrong. Discipline is not the same as punishment. Discipline is a loving correction that aims to teach and restore, not harm or condemn. The Bible says that God disciplines those he loves as a father disciplines his son (Hebrews 12:5-11). Likewise, parents should discipline their children out of love and concern for their well-being, not out of anger or frustration. Proverbs 13:24 says, “Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.” Discipline should be consistent, fair, appropriate, and balanced with encouragement and affirmation.
Finally, parents should train their children by releasing them to God’s will and purpose for their lives. Parents should not try to control or manipulate their children’s choices or destinies, but rather trust God to lead and guide them according to his plan. Parents should also respect their children’s individuality and gifts and support them in pursuing their passions and dreams. Parents should remember that their children belong to God, not to them. Psalm 139:13-16 says, “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.”
In conclusion, the Bible offers many insights and instructions for parents who want to raise their children right. By following these principles and examples, parents can honor God with their parenting and bless their children with a godly heritage.
Blessings to you and your families,
~Lesallan – July 14th, 2023
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