25 Bible Verses About Training Up A Child (With Commentary)

Parenting is a sacred responsibility, one that requires patience, love, and guidance. The Bible offers timeless wisdom on raising children, emphasizing the importance of teaching and nurturing them in the ways of righteousness. Let’s explore verses that illuminate the path of parenting and offer insights on how to train up a child in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

Bible Verses About Training Up A Child

Proverbs 22:6

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of laying a strong foundation of godly values and principles in a child’s life. It emphasizes the responsibility of parents and guardians to provide guidance and instruction that aligns with God’s Word, with the expectation that it will influence the child’s behavior even into adulthood.

Ephesians 6:4

“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

Parents are encouraged to rear their children in an atmosphere of love, respect, and discipline. Rather than harshly provoking them or causing frustration, parents are called to teach and discipline their children in a manner that aligns with God’s ways.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

“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.”

God instructs parents to consistently teach His Word to their children. The passage emphasizes the importance of instructing them in God’s commandments in every aspect of life, creating a lifestyle where God’s Word is integrated into daily routines and conversations.

Proverbs 29:17

“Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.”

This verse highlights the role of discipline in guidance. Parents who enforce boundaries and correction in love will experience peace and joy as their children grow in obedience and righteousness.

Colossians 3:21

“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.”

Parents are cautioned against treating their children in a way that causes bitterness or discouragement. This verse reminds parents to be mindful of the impact their words and actions have on their children’s emotional well-being.

Proverbs 13:24

“Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of discipline as an expression of love and care for children. Though discipline may involve correction and guidance, it is an essential aspect of raising children to become responsible and godly individuals.

Psalm 78:4

“We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.”

Parents are called to pass on their knowledge and experiences of God’s goodness and faithfulness to the next generation. Sharing testimonies and stories of God’s work encourages children to place their trust in Him and seek a personal relationship with Him.

Psalm 127:3

“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.”

This verse reminds us of the precious gift children are from the Lord. It encourages parents to view their children as blessings and to cherish them as a heritage entrusted by God.

Deuteronomy 4:9

“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”

God calls the Israelites to remember and preserve the memory of His mighty works, making it a responsibility to pass on their faith to future generations. This verse serves as a reminder to teach our children not only what we have experienced but also the truths and promises found in God’s Word.

Proverbs 19:18

“Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.”

Parents are urged to discipline their children as an act of love in order to guide them toward a hopeful future. Neglecting discipline can have detrimental consequences and hinder their growth and development.

Psalm 34:11

“Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.”

The psalmist invites children to listen and learn the fear of the Lord, understanding the awe, reverence, and respect due to Him. As parents, we should echo this call and teach our children to honor and obey God.

Proverbs 1:8-9

“Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.”

This verse emphasizes the value of heeding parental instruction, viewing it as both a source of wisdom and a symbol of honor and beauty. Children who listen and learn from their parents receive the benefits of their guidance and wisdom.

Psalm 127:4-5

“Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.”

This passage compares children to arrows, emphasizing their significance and impact when guided and directed by their parents. Parents are called blessed when they have a full quiver of godly children who bring honor and support to the family.

Proverbs 23:22

“Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”

This verse encourages children to listen and honor their parents, recognizing the importance of their role in their lives. It emphasizes the need for respect and care for aging parents.

Psalm 145:4

“One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts.”

This verse highlights the responsibility of passing down knowledge of God’s faithfulness and mighty works from one generation to the next. It encourages the continuous declaration and testimony of God’s goodness.

Proverbs 20:7

“The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!”

This verse underscores the impact of righteous living on the generations to come. Children of those who walk in integrity and righteousness are blessed, as they are influenced by the example and teachings of their parents.

Proverbs 15:20

“A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.”

This verse emphasizes the joy and satisfaction that comes from having a wise and obedient child. It also highlights the negative consequences that come from disregarding or disrespecting one’s parents.

2 Timothy 3:15

“…and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”

Timothy’s upbringing is commended, as he was trained in the knowledge of God’s Word from a young age. This verse highlights the importance of immersing children in the Scriptures, which have the power to lead them to salvation through faith in Jesus.

Proverbs 17:6

“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.”

This verse speaks to the lasting legacy that children and grandchildren bring to their parents and grandparents. It emphasizes the honor and pride parents have in their children and the joy that grandchildren bring to the elderly.

1 Timothy 3:4

“He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive.”

This verse addresses the qualifications of overseers in the church and highlights the importance of effectively managing one’s household. It emphasizes the need for parents to maintain authority and guidance over their children.

Matthew 18:5

“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.”

Jesus teaches that welcoming and loving children in His name is an act of receiving Him. This verse reinforces the importance of valuing and caring for children.

Proverbs 22:15

“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.”

This verse recognizes the natural inclinations toward foolishness in a child’s heart. Discipline serves as a means to correct and guide children away from destructive behaviors and towards wisdom and righteousness.

Psalm 103:13

“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.”

This verse draws a parallel between a father’s compassionate love for his children and God’s compassionate love for those who fear Him. It encourages parents to exhibit love and compassion just as God does.

Proverbs 29:15

“The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.”

This verse emphasizes the role of discipline in cultivating wisdom in a child’s life. It warns against neglecting discipline, as it can lead to actions and behaviors that bring shame to a parent.

Each of these Bible verses provide valuable wisdom and guidance for parents and guardians in raising godly children. They emphasize the importance of teaching, discipline, love, and respect within the family unit. These verses remind us that children are a precious gift from God, entrusted to us for care, guidance, and the instillation of godly principles. By grounding our children in the truth of God’s Word from an early age, disciplining them in love, and modeling a life of faith, we equip them to navigate the complexities of the world with wisdom, integrity, and a deep understanding of God’s love for them. May we heed the lessons within these verses and faithfully raise the next generation to know and love the Lord.

What Does the Bible Say About Training Up A Child?

The Bible teaches us the importance of training up a child in the way they should go so that when they are old, they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). This involves not only providing them with practical skills and knowledge but also instilling in them godly values, morals, and faith.

We are instructed to teach our children diligently and to talk about God’s commandments and principles when we sit at home, walk along the road, lie down, and get up (Deuteronomy 6:7). Our parenting should reflect God’s love, discipline, and truth. Ephesians 6:4 also encourages us to bring up our children in the training and instruction of the Lord, shaping them in a way that honors and pleases God.

As parents, it is our responsibility to guide and nurture our children’s spiritual growth, helping them develop a personal relationship with God. This includes modeling a godly life before them, consistently praying for and with them, and providing opportunities for them to engage with the Word of God.

In summary, the Bible highlights the importance of holistic training for children, encompassing both practical skills and spiritual development. It is our duty to raise our children in a way that reflects God’s love, truth, and righteousness, ultimately guiding them towards a life that honors and glorifies Him.