The Bible places great importance on protecting and nurturing children. From Old Testament laws safeguarding children to Jesus’ own care for the little ones, Scripture encourages believers to value, care for, and protect children, ensuring their safety, well-being, and spiritual growth.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About coincidence
What Does The Bible Say About protecting children
Matthew 18:6
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of protecting children from harm. It highlights the gravity of leading children astray and committing acts that may harm their innocence or hinder their spiritual growth. As followers of Christ, we are called to be vigilant in safeguarding and nurturing the young ones, guiding them towards a life of righteousness and godliness.
Psalm 127:3
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.”
This verse reminds us that children are a precious gift from God. They are a blessing, a heritage bestowed upon us, and should be treasured. As parents or guardians, it is our responsibility to protect and provide for them, both physically and spiritually. We are called to create a safe and nurturing environment where they can grow and flourish, guided by the love and teachings of our Heavenly Father.
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 verse emphasizes the significance of teaching children the ways of the Lord. By imparting godly wisdom, values, and teachings to them from an early age, we can instill a strong foundation of faith that will guide them throughout their lives. It is our duty to guide them towards righteousness, nurturing their spiritual growth and helping them develop a personal relationship with God.
Matthew 19:14
“But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
Jesus’s words in this verse highlight the importance of including children in the community of believers. He encourages us to embrace the innocence, humility, and pure faith that children possess, recognizing that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who have childlike hearts. As adults, we should create spaces where children feel welcome, loved, and encouraged in their relationship with God.
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”
This verse emphasizes the role of parents, particularly fathers, in nurturing and guiding their children. It urges parents to avoid behavior that may anger or exasperate their children, and instead, to provide a loving and disciplined environment where they can grow and learn in the ways of the Lord. Parents are called to be examples of faith, teaching their children about God’s love and providing them with spiritual guidance.
Psalm 34:11
“Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.”
In this verse, we are called to instruct children in the fear and reverence of the Lord. As adults, we should seize the opportunity to share our knowledge of God’s character, His love, and His commandments with the younger generation. By teaching them about the ways of the Lord, we equip them to navigate life’s challenges, make wise choices, and walk in a manner that brings honor to God.
Deuteronomy 6:7
“You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of continuous spiritual education, highlighted by the act of teaching our children diligently. It encourages us to integrate discussions about God’s word into everyday life, seizing teachable moments in various situations. By incorporating the teachings of God into our daily routines, we create opportunities for children to grow in their understanding and love for Him.
Mark 10:13-16
“Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.’ And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.”
This powerful account demonstrates Jesus’ deep love and concern for children. Despite the disciples’ initial resistance, Jesus welcomes the children, emphasizing that the kingdom of God belongs to those who approach Him with childlike faith and trust. This passage reminds us to foster an environment where children can encounter Jesus personally, receiving His love, grace, and blessing.
Psalm 103:13
“As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.”
This verse beautifully portrays the compassionate nature of God towards His children. It compares His compassion to that of a loving and caring father towards his own children. Just as parents have a deep sense of love and concern for their little ones, so does God have tender affection and mercy for those who revere and honor Him. Children are precious to God, and He watches over them with endless love.
Proverbs 13:24
“He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.”
This verse highlights the importance of loving discipline in raising children. Disciplining children promptly, out of love and concern, is seen as an expression of affection rather than hatred. By providing appropriate boundaries and consequences, parents guide children towards making wise choices and developing godly character. Discipline, when rooted in love and done with wisdom, is an essential part of protecting and nurturing children.
Psalm 78:4
“We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of passing down the stories and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to future generations. It encourages us to teach our children about the mighty acts of God throughout history, telling them of His power, miracles, and the ways He has worked in our own lives. By sharing the goodness and faithfulness of God, we inspire children to hold onto their faith and trust in Him.
Isaiah 54:13
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.”
God promises in this verse that He Himself will teach our children. As parents and guardians, it is our responsibility to impart biblical knowledge and spiritual guidance, but ultimately, it is God who works in the hearts and minds of our children. When children are taught by the Lord, they experience His peace, which surpasses all understanding and guards their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Psalm 139:13
“For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.”
This verse speaks to the sanctity of life and the divine hand of God in the creation of every child. It highlights the intimate involvement of God in the formation and development of each individual in the womb. Every child has inherent value and purpose, intricately designed by the Creator. This verse reminds us of the preciousness of life and the responsibility to protect and cherish every child as a living expression of God’s love.
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.”
This verse calls us to be advocates for the defenseless and vulnerable, including children who may be voiceless or oppressed. We are called to speak up on their behalf, fighting for their well-being and ensuring justice. As followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to protect children from any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and to actively promote their rights and welfare.
Proverbs 23:13-14
“Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod, he will not die. You shall beat him with a rod, and deliver his soul from hell.”
This verse acknowledges the importance of disciplining children when necessary, using appropriate correction that teaches and guides them. The purpose of discipline is not to cause harm but to prevent children from making destructive choices that could lead them astray. By disciplining them with love and wisdom, we strive to steer children towards a righteous path, ultimately safeguarding their souls from spiritual harm.
Psalm 127:4-5
“Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.”
This imagery-rich passage compares children to arrows in the hands of a warrior. It conveys the idea that children are a source of strength and blessing, bringing joy and protection to their parents. The verse depicts a picture of a family filled with children who grow up to be confident and influential, standing firm in their convictions even in times of opposition. It highlights the profound impact and significance of children within the family unit and society.
Psalm 78:6-7
“That the generation to come might know them, the children who would be born, that they may arise and declare them to their children, that they may set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments.”
This verse emphasizes the intergenerational transmission of faith. It speaks of the importance of passing on the knowledge and understanding of God’s nature, His works, and His commandments to future generations. By instilling hope and faith in God, children can continue the legacy of faithfulness, enabling them to walk in His ways and retain a deep reverence for Him.
Mark 9:36-37
“Then He took a little child and set him in the midst of them. And when He had taken him in His arms, He said to them, ‘Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.’”
This poignant account reveals that when we receive and embrace children in Jesus’ name, we are receiving Jesus Himself. It emphasizes the profound connection between our treatment of children and our relationship with Christ. By extending love, acceptance, and care to children, we demonstrate our love for the Lord and acknowledge the inherent worth and significance of even the youngest members of society.
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.”
This verse specifically addresses fathers, cautioning them against behavior that may provoke or discourage their children. It serves as a reminder that our actions and words have a profound impact on the emotional well-being and development of children. By demonstrating love, patience, and understanding, fathers, and parents as a whole, can create an environment that nurtures the self-esteem and confidence of their children.
1 Timothy 3:4-5
“One who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?)”
This verse underscores the importance of establishing a godly household and leading it well. It depicts the connection between the management of one’s family and the ability to care for the church and community. By guiding children with reverence and discipline, parents model the principles of leadership and stewardship. Through their example, they lay the foundation for children to grow into responsible and faithful individuals.
Psalm 127:3-5
“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 powerful passage highlights children as a heritage and gift from God. It emphasizes the significance and blessing of having children, describing them as potent arrows in the hands of a warrior. A home filled with children is portrayed as a source of strength and honor, as they grow to be confident and influential, able to face any challenges that arise. This verse celebrates the joy and value children bring to our lives.
Proverbs 29:15
“The rod and rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.”
This verse recognizes the role of discipline in shaping a child’s character and imparting wisdom. It implies that when children are left undisciplined or unguided, they can bring shame not only to themselves but also to their parents. By providing clear boundaries and correction, parents help children develop self-control, responsibility, and good judgment, ultimately leading to their flourishing and the honor of their family.
1 John 3:18
“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”
This verse challenges us to love not only with words but also through our actions and genuine care. Children need to experience practical expressions of love, such as kindness, patience, and attentiveness, which build trust and foster a sense of security. As followers of Christ, we are called to demonstrate His love to the younger generation, showing them the sacrificial and selfless love that God has lavished upon us.
Psalm 78:1-4
“My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old—things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of storytelling and passing on the testimonies of God’s faithfulness to future generations. As believers, we have a responsibility to relay the teachings, wonders, and acts of God to our children. By sharing our experiences and the wisdom we have gained, we encourage faith and trust in God, inspiring the next generation to follow Him wholeheartedly.
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.”
This verse urges us to be vigilant in remembering and sharing God’s faithfulness with future generations. It reminds us that our experiences and encounters with God should not be forgotten or diluted over time but rather passed down to our children and their children. By intentionally teaching and reminding our children of our spiritual encounters, we invite them into a legacy of faith and inspire them to seek and serve the Lord.