RAISING CHILDREN IN GODLINESS: Leading by Instruction

Your instruction is as vital as your example when it comes to raising children in godliness. One of the best-known scriptures on parenting is, “Bring [your children] up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). Thankfully, your Bible is an unbeatable resource in this task.

The Bible is full of God’s principles for behavior in virtually every area of life. As you guide your children through the questions, dilemmas, and situations they face, make Scripture your infallible source of practical wisdom. The book of Proverbs and the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels are obvious places to turn for instruction in godly living. But from Genesis to Revelation, you’ll find God’s principles illustrated through example, storytelling, admonition, and exhortation. Be open to instruction from unlikely verses. The Word itself states that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to Bible passages that address what your children need to hear, then share those passages with them.

Remember God’s Word is not only infallible but also alive (Heb. 4:12). Even before your children can understand the meaning, you can read or pray Scripture over them with powerful effect. As they grow, they’ll be able to understand the meaning of Bible passages you share for their instruction. Listen carefully to the issues going on in your children’s lives, and let your response and conversation be informed by related Bible passages, stories, and principles.

When old enough, encourage your children to consult God’s Word themselves for answers to the issues they face. Show them how to use a concordance and how to research Bible topics such as friendship hand helping others. They’ll quickly discover that God has indeed provided answers for every situation of life, and the instinct to consult Him in all things will serve them well as they grow. Also, find a trustworthy, Bible-believing church and attend regularly. This will be crucial to ensuring that both you and your children remain under solid biblical teaching to aid you in your Christian growth. Being part of a local church will also draw you into fellowship with other believers. And that, in turn, will provide reinforcement for putting godly principles into practice and helping you stay on 

a godly path.

Don’t forget that as a believer, you—and your children, once they’ve trusted Christ as their Savior—have the Holy Spirit living within to provide guidance in applying God’s principles. You also have God’s promise to give you wisdom whenever you ask for it (James 1:5). Teach your children to ask for God’s help when they’re troubled or confused about anything. His Word promises He’ll surely provide.