Bible Verses About Children

Children are a precious gift from God and hold a special place in His heart. The Bible is filled with verses that speak to the importance of children and the responsibility we have to nurture and guide them. These verses provide wisdom and guidance for parents, caregivers, and anyone who interacts with children. Let us explore some of these verses and understand their significance in the context of children.

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of early guidance and teaching in a child’s life. It highlights the impact of instilling godly values and teachings from a young age, which can shape their character and beliefs as they grow older.

Matthew 18:2-5 (NIV)

“He called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.'”

In this passage, Jesus affirms the innocence, humility, and trust that children possess. He encourages us to embrace these qualities and approach our relationship with God with childlike faith. Additionally, Jesus emphasizes the importance of welcoming and caring for children as an act of welcoming Him.

Psalms 127:3-5 (NIV)

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.”

This verse portrays children as a blessing and a sign of favor from God. It compares children to arrows in the hands of a warrior, symbolizing their potential for impact and influence. It also highlights the strength and honor that comes from having a family filled with children.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV)

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

God instructs us to teach His commandments and principles diligently to our children. This verse emphasizes the importance of intentional, consistent instruction and conversation about God’s ways in everyday life. It highlights the responsibility we have as parents and caregivers to guide children in the ways of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:4 (NIV)

“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”

This verse specifically addresses fathers but applies to all parents and caregivers. It reminds us to avoid provoking or irritating our children but rather to raise them in a nurturing environment that fosters spiritual growth. It underscores the significance of teaching children about God’s ways and providing them with godly guidance.

Proverbs 17:6 (NIV)

“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.”

This verse speaks to the joy and fulfillment that comes from seeing the next generation flourish. It highlights the deep bond between grandparents and grandchildren and the pride that parents take in their children’s accomplishments. It reinforces the idea that children are a source of blessing and honor.

Mark 10:13-16 (NIV)

“People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’ And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.”

This powerful passage showcases Jesus’ love for children and His desire for them to come to Him. It teaches us the importance of valuing and embracing children rather than dismissing or hindering them. Jesus’ act of blessing the children demonstrates His care and concern for their well-being.

Psalm 139:13-16 (NIV)

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”

This beautiful passage acknowledges God as the creator of every human life, including the lives of children. It highlights the intricate and intentional nature of God’s design and affirms the inherent value and worth of every child. It reminds us that each child is uniquely created and known by God even before birth.

Psalm 127:3 (NIV)

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”

This verse echoes the sentiment expressed in Psalm 127:3-5, emphasizing that children are a gift from God. It reinforces the idea that children are not only a responsibility but also a blessing. It reminds us to cherish and value the role of children in our lives.

Isaiah 54:13 (NIV)

“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.”

This verse assures us that when children are taught by the Lord, they will experience profound peace. It highlights the significance of godly instruction and reveals the promise of peace that comes from a relationship with God. It encourages us to prioritize teaching children about God’s ways.

Psalm 8:2 (NIV)

“Through the praise of children and infants, you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.”

In this verse, children are recognized for their ability to praise God and bring honor to His name. It reveals the spiritual power that emanates from the mouths of children. It reminds us that children have a unique capacity to glorify God and can play a significant role in spiritual warfare.

Proverbs 29:17 (NIV)

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

This verse highlights the importance of discipline in raising children. It emphasizes that disciplined children can bring peace to their parents and be a source of joy. It encourages parents and caregivers to provide loving discipline that helps shape children’s character and behavior.

Colossians 3:21 (NIV)

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

This verse addresses fathers, but the principle applies to all parents and caregivers. It cautions against actions or words that can discourage or embitter children. It reminds us of the impact our behavior and attitudes can have on children’s emotional well-being and encourages us to foster an environment of love and encouragement.

Psalm 34:11 (NIV)

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

This verse exemplifies the responsibility we have to teach children about the fear, reverence, and respect for the Lord. It encourages us to actively instruct and guide children in understanding God’s character and ways. It emphasizes the role of adults in passing on spiritual wisdom to the next generation.

Proverbs 23:24-25 (NIV)

“The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!”

This verse celebrates the joy and pride that parents experience when their children walk in righteousness and wisdom. It highlights the deep bond between parents and children and the joy that comes from seeing children make wise choices. It encourages parents to invest in their children’s spiritual growth and character development.

These verses provide a glimpse into the Bible’s teachings on children and the importance of our role in nurturing and guiding them. They remind us to cherish the gift of children, to teach them about God’s ways, and to create an environment where they can thrive spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Let us embrace the wisdom contained in these verses and strive to raise children who love and follow the Lord.