Raising children in today’s world can feel like sailing against the wind. As Christian parents, we’re not just called to raise smart, talented children, we’re called to raise godly ones.
The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This isn’t just advice, it’s a promise and a responsibility.
So what does “the way he should go” really look like in practical terms? Let’s break down 7 key moral values every Christian parent should be intentional about teaching.
1. Honesty: Truth-telling is the bedrock of integrity. In a world where lies often go unchecked, teaching your children to be honest, even when it’s hard, is a must. Let them know that God values truth.
Scripture to Teach: “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.” – Proverbs 12:22
Start small. If they break something or do something wrong, praise their honesty before addressing the issue. This builds character more than a hundred punishments ever will.
2. Respect: Respect isn’t just about saying “please” and “thank you.” It’s about honouring authority, being kind to others, and understanding boundaries. Whether it’s a teacher, an elder, or even a sibling, respect teaches humility.
Scripture to Teach: “Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” – Exodus 20:12
Make respect a two-way street, model it at home. Children learn best not from what we say, but from what we do.
3. Kindness and Compassion: It’s easy to be kind to people who are kind to us. But Christ calls us to something deeper; compassion, even when it’s not convenient.
Scripture to Teach: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Encourage your children to look out for the lonely child on the playground or to share their toys generously. These small acts lay the groundwork for godly empathy.
4. Responsibility: From making their bed to completing school assignments, children should learn to be accountable for their actions. Responsibility isn’t just about chores, it’s about ownership.
Scripture to Teach: “Each of you should carry your own load.” – Galatians 6:5
Give them age-appropriate responsibilities and resist the urge to rescue them from consequences. That’s how wisdom grows.
5. Self-Control: Our world says, “If it feels good, do it.” But Scripture teaches the opposite. Self-control is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) and it sets your child apart.
Whether it’s managing anger, resisting peer pressure, or choosing not to binge on screen time; self-discipline is a life-long asset.
Practical Tip: Help them memorize verses like “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32
6. Gratitude: Entitlement is a growing epidemic among children these days . Teaching them to be thankful is one of the most powerful antidotes.
Scripture to Teach: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Make gratitude a daily habit. At dinner or bedtime, ask them to name three things they’re thankful for. Over time, it shifts their perspective.
7. Faith in God: Last but certainly not least, instill in your children a deep, personal relationship with God. Not just Sunday school knowledge, but living, breathing faith. Teach them to pray, to read the Bible, and to trust God in all things.
Scripture to Teach: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33
Faith doesn’t grow in a vacuum. It grows in a home where God is honoured daily, not just at church, but in the little moments: before a test, during conflict, or while watching the sunset.
You don’t need to be a perfect parent to raise godly children. You just need to be a present one; intentional, prayerful, and rooted in the Word of God. Your home is your first mission field.
Remember, values aren’t taught in a day. They’re taught daily.
And as Deuteronomy 6:6–7 says, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road...”
Start now. Start small. But most importantly, start with the Word.
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