Who do you go to for parenting advice? A friend who is also raising children about the same age as yours? A grandparent? When I was first parenting back in the ’90s, my small group would devour hours of parenting videos or read the most recent books, looking for wisdom on how to do this childrearing thing well. Because all of us wanted faith to be at the core of our parenting, usually something from Focus on the Family won the day. However, there is another book I highly recommend if you are looking to dial in your parenting practices. Over the years, parenting styles may have evolved significantly, but I have found that the Bible offers timeless wisdom that remains relevant today.
Parenting in the 21st century is a complex and often overwhelming task. Amid the constant influx of parenting advice on social media and ever-evolving child-rearing trends, it is easy to feel lost. Yet, within the noise of modern parenting, I have found the Bible to be an ageless resource. While its teachings may seem antiquated to some, biblical principles for raising children offer enduring guidance that is as applicable today as ever.
Here are six biblical principles that might be considered old-fashioned — but I maintain are essential for effective parenting:
Discipline your children as an expression of love. The Bible presents discipline not as a punitive measure, but as a loving act of guidance. It is akin to a gardener pruning a plant to encourage healthy growth. When we discipline our children, we are not simply punishing a wrong, but shaping their character and preparing them for life’s challenges. We are teaching self-control, respect for boundaries, and understanding of the consequences of choices.
Teach your children to respect authority. The Bible teaches children to honor their parents as a reflection of their respect for God. This foundational principle instills a sense of responsibility and respect in children. By understanding that parents are God-appointed leaders in their lives, children learn to listen to, and appreciate, authority figures beyond the family unit. This respect is essential for building strong character, learning to be a team player, and navigating the complexities of society.
There is no substitute for hard work. The Bible exalts the virtues of hard work and perseverance. By instilling these values in our children, we equip them for a life of accomplishment and fulfillment. Diligence is more than just completing tasks; it’s about cultivating a strong work ethic, developing a sense of responsibility, and understanding the rewards of perseverance. As parents, we can model these qualities through our own actions and encourage our children to embrace challenges with determination.
Teach your children about the value of money and the importance of contentment. In a consumer-driven world, the Bible emphasizes the importance of contentment and wise stewardship of resources. By teaching our children to value what they have and to avoid unnecessary spending, we equip them for financial stability and emotional well-being. Frugality is not about deprivation but about making intentional choices. It fosters gratitude, reduces stress, and allows for greater generosity. Ultimately, contentment is a byproduct of a heart focused on what truly matters, rather than material possessions.
Teach your children to prioritize family. Spending quality time together, sharing meals, and creating family traditions fosters a sense of belonging and unity. The Bible emphasizes the importance of strong family bonds. By prioritizing family time, parents cultivate a sense of belonging and security in their children. Shared experiences, traditions, and open communication strengthen familial ties. When children see their parents prioritizing family life, they learn the value of relationships over possessions and the importance of supporting one another. This foundation equips them to build healthy and lasting connections in their own lives.
Teach your children to be obedient. Obedience is a cornerstone of character development. It teaches children respect for authority, self-control, and the ability to follow rules. When children learn to obey their parents, they develop a foundation for respecting teachers, law enforcement, and ultimately, God. Obedience is not about blind submission, but about recognizing the wisdom and love behind parental guidance. It prepares children for a life of responsibility and success.
Something deeper about obedience. Obeying parents is more than just following rules; it’s a foundational step toward a lifelong relationship with God. Children learn to submit their desires to a higher authority, developing a sense of humility and respect. Obedience is not merely compliance but an outward expression of inward affection. When children obey their parents out of love and respect, they develop a heart posture that prepares them for a lifetime of honoring God. This connection between earthly and divine authority fosters a deep-rooted desire to please, a willingness to submit, and a recognition of the wisdom behind guidance. True obedience is born from a heart overflowing with love.
When we nurture our children according to biblical principles, we equip them for a life of purpose, joy, and peace. By instilling values such as honesty, compassion, and perseverance, we lay a strong foundation for their character. A biblical worldview empowers children to make wise choices, build meaningful relationships, and find ultimate fulfillment in their Creator. As they grow, they are better equipped to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and hope, ultimately living lives that honor God, while fulfilling the purpose they were created for (Eph 2:10).