Bible Lessons that Help Parents Raising Children

Raising a child is not easy. We are living in a very fast paced and high tech world. Our children need guidance and direction. If parents do not teach their child right from wrong they will observe and learn from the world around them. Too many of today's children are growing up without guidance; which leads to a lack of purpose. In fact, we live in a society that is populated with teens and young adults, children raised without guidance and discipline, that are starving for purpose and direction. Left to themselves these children wander aimlessly through life; often turning to gangs to fill a void. If you ask a gang member why they joined the gang and listen carefully to their answer you will learn the underlying reasons. Some fall prey to peer pressure because they lack decision making skills and self-confidence. Others join to replace missing father figures. Many are seeking the attention and love they feel they were not getting at home. There are many reasons our children are going astray and living self destructive lives.

There are Bible lessons that help parents raising children. Parents can gain knowledge from the advice the Bible gives; it will help them while raising their child.

(Proverbs 4:7) "Wisdom is the principle thing: therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." What does that mean? Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do. Parents, when you get wisdom you are able to pass that wisdom on to your child.

So, how do you use the Bible to teach your child? Well, let's take a look at what the Bible teaches parents. A good place to start is with Proverbs; which are expressions that give valuable advice and states a general truth. Keep in mind that the Bible was recorded by humans, but inspired by God.

Why were the Proverbs written? (Proverbs 1:4) "To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion." To translate and simplify: These proverbs will make the simple minded clever. They will give knowledge and purpose to young people. Parents can learn from the Bible.

However, parents that do get knowledge from the Bible must keep it fresh in their minds. (Proverbs 4:5) "Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth." This means: Learn to be wise and develop good judgment. What is the lesson here? In order for a parent to be effective in teaching their child they too must be wise, and have good judgment. Children resemble their parents; remember the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

The Bible teaches the importance of discipline, and the parents role in child rearing. (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 tells parents the importance of teaching their children to choose the right path, because when they are older they will remain upon it. Parents play an important role in the direction their children choose; if they teach them about positive paths it gives the child guidance and strengthens their decision making skills.

(Proverbs 22:15) "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him." A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but discipline will drive it away. Most people believe that the "rod of correction" literally means a hard long metal rod or stick. However, many interpret the expression as a metaphor for correction not as an actual tangible tool. The lessons here are based on the latter.

(Proverbs 23:13) "Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die." Don't fail to correct your children. They won't die if you spank them. Again, the rod is used as a metaphor. Could this mean beat him with words, be consistent, and repetitive? The Bible expresses the need to discipline a child; the purpose is clearly to correct a child. How do we know this? Physical abuse can lead to physical or spiritual death. Spiritual death, e.g. depression, can result from physical abuse. Thus, we can conclude that the Bible is not suggesting that parents abuse their children. Although, it may encourage spanking.

This can be proved in, (Proverbs 23:14) "Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell." Discipline may well save them from death. (Proverbs 28:7) "Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father." This means that young people who obey the law are wise; those who seek out worthless companions bring shame to their parents. Parents can teach their child to make wise choices through discipline; disciplined children learn acceptable behavior and understand that there are consequences for their actions.

Parents are the most important people in a child's life, but they have a responsibility. (Proverbs 29:15) "The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame." To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but parents are disgraced by an unruly child. Many children are left alone to raise themselves; single parents have to work to support the family. No matter how stressful life is for the parent they must find the time and energy to pay attention to their children's needs. Parents can find the strength to do so in God's word.

What has the Bible taught us with just these few passages? The difference a parent can make in a child's life, and the importance of discipline and correction. The Bible lessons that help parents raising children are plentiful. We've only touched upon one subject here, but there are many more. The lesson learned: (Proverbs 29:17)"Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul." Simply put, discipline your children, and they will give you happiness and peace of mind.

Helpful Resources:
Family Bible Study

Raising Godly Children