How can I be a good parent?

I love my children. I have no doubt that you love yours as well. It is simply human nature to love these little people, and to want the very best things in life for them. 

But most of us already know that loving our child and wanting the best for them is not the end of the parenting road. This is the part that comes easily, but it doesn’t actually get very much done.

So what else is there? How do we not only shower them with kisses and tickles, not only feed them and change their diapers, not only shelter them and put them on the school bus each day, but show them how to navigate the world?

Here are 10 Scriptural tips for being a good parent

  1. Invest quality time in a personal relationship with God (Matthew 22:37). 
  2. Share the gospel with your children, and regularly discuss God’s Word (Deuteronomy 6).
  3. Love your spouse well, in front of your children (Song of Songs).
  4. Approach each child according to their personality, in a meaningful way (Ephesians 5:21).
  5. Show kindness, compassion, humility, gentleness, patience, willingness to forgive, and love (Colossians 3:12-14).
  6. Discipline your children, with wisdom and without anger (Ephesians 6:4).
  7. Trust God, even when it does not make sense, and be open about that with your children (Genesis 15:6).
  8. Don’t be distracted by or over-focused on this world, money, power, or reputation (Colossians 3:1-4).
  9. Conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, especially at home (Philippians 1:27).
  10. Put on the full armor of God, praying in the Spirit for and with your children (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Raising children is not easy. But we must remember that they first and foremost belong to God. We want to enjoy our children, but it is also our sacred responsibility to teach our children the important things of life. And what could be more important than the path to eternal life in glory – following Jesus?

Some books that are helpful on this topic include:

Written by Jessica Hayes
iHope Communications Director