Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
What the Bible Says About Parenting
The Bible places enormous importance on the role of parents as the primary spiritual teachers of their children. Deuteronomy 6 instructs parents to weave God's commands into every part of daily life, not just during formal religious instruction but in ordinary conversations throughout the day.
Proverbs 22:6 offers both guidance and encouragement to parents. Training a child in the way they should go involves understanding each child's unique temperament and gifting, then directing them along the path God has designed for them. The promise that they will not depart from it in old age gives parents hope for their investment.
Biblical parenting balances love and discipline. Ephesians 6:4 warns fathers against provoking their children to anger through harshness or unreasonable demands, while simultaneously calling them to bring children up in the nurture and instruction of the Lord. Both grace and truth are required.
Key Bible Verses
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
— Proverbs 22:6
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”
— Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”
— Ephesians 6:4
Practical Application
- Follow the Deuteronomy 6 model by looking for natural opportunities throughout the day to talk about God with your children, not just at bedtime or church.
- Balance correction with encouragement, ensuring your children hear far more words of affirmation and love than words of criticism.
- Model the faith you want your children to adopt by letting them see you pray, read Scripture, repent, and rely on God in your own daily life.
Family Discussion & Activity
Discussion Questions
- ? What does it mean to train up a child in the way he should go?
- ? How can parents teach their children about God in everyday moments, not just during Bible time?
- ? What is one thing your parents taught you about faith that has stuck with you?
Family Activity
This week, look for examples of parenting in your daily lives. Share one example at dinner each night and talk about how the Bible's teachings on parenting can guide your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important thing a parent can do spiritually?
Model a genuine, daily relationship with God. Children learn more from watching their parents' faith in action than from formal instruction alone.
Does Proverbs 22:6 guarantee my child will follow God?
Proverbs are statements of general wisdom, not unconditional guarantees. Proverbs 22:6 teaches that faithful training has a powerful, lasting influence, but each person ultimately makes their own choices.
How should a Christian parent discipline their children?
Biblical discipline is corrective, not punitive. It aims to teach and restore, using firm but loving boundaries that reflect God's own patient, consistent correction of His children.
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