Christian books on parenting are great, but as with all areas of life, the scriptures are the best place to go for advice. Here are 6 scriptures that will remind us to cherish, diligently train, and learn from our children.
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” – Psalm 127:3
Children are a blessing from God. Whenever you are struggling to find inspiration in your parenting, remember this. Parenting isn’t easy, but these children that God have given you are a gift and a reward. They will be a blessing to your life. Cherish them.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” – Deut 6:5-7
Steep your children in God’s love and show them the goodness of life lived loving Him. Talk about His goodness over dinner, and tell your children of the wonders He has done in your life during the drive to school. After all, we exist for Him.
“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” – Matt 18:3-4
Be humble enough to learn from your children. Come with childlike wonder to God. Realize that just as your kids are utterly dependent on you to feed and protect them, you are likewise utterly dependent on God for each breath you breathe. Come to God like a child and watch your children so you can emulate their humility.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
Ultimately it is the Lord who calls us to himself, but He still instructs us to train our children in His ways. And because His ways are good and the only way that brings true contentment, they will never want to depart from them.
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” – Eph 6:4
Parents, don’t exasperate your children. Don’t push them so hard they are provoked to frustration and anger. Instead, instruct them in the love, grace, and goodness of the Lord, and use discipline to protect them from the pain of walking in self-destructive rebellion.
“From childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” – 2 Tim 3:15
Immerse your kids in God’s great story. Make your kids well acquainted with the scriptures and the story of their redemption in Jesus. For it will make them wise for salvation through faith in Christ, and lead them to the knowledge of the truth.
