Blended families are a part of many people’s lives, and step-parents play a crucial role in them. What does the Bible say about the relationship between step-parents and their children? While there aren’t direct examples of step-parenting, Scripture provides valuable guidance on family, love, and responsibility that can apply.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About drag queens
What Does The Bible Say About step parents
Ephesians 6:1-3
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ – which is the first commandment with a promise – ‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'”
This verse emphasizes the importance of children obeying their parents, including step-parents. As believers, children are called to honor and respect their parents, showing obedience and gratitude for the love and care they provide.
Having a step-parent can often be a challenging adjustment for children, but this verse reminds them of their responsibility to honor and obey their step-parent as they would their biological parents. By doing so, they can experience the blessings and favor of God in their lives.
Colossians 3:20
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
Children are instructed to obey their parents, step-parents included, in everything. This verse emphasizes that obedience to parents is not just a societal expectation but also a way to please the Lord.
Even though it can be challenging to obey a step-parent, especially if there are conflicting emotions or dynamics, choosing to obey them demonstrates a heart that desires to honor God. By honoring and obeying their step-parent, children can cultivate a spirit of humility and submission that aligns with God’s will.
Proverbs 1:8
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.”
This proverb encourages children to attentively listen to the instruction and guidance provided by their fathers and mothers, including step-parents. Children are advised to value and not forsake the teachings given by their parents.
Step-parents play a significant role in the upbringing of children, offering wisdom, guidance, and support. By actively listening and embracing the teachings of their step-parents, children can gain valuable insights and life lessons that will help shape their character and future.
Proverbs 15:20
“A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.”
This proverb highlights the impact of a child’s behavior on their parents, which includes step-parents. A wise child, who respects and honors their step-parent, brings joy and happiness to their lives.
On the other hand, a foolish child shows disrespect and despises their mother, which can cause pain and hurt. By choosing to be wise and treating their step-parent with love and respect, children can contribute to a healthy and harmonious family dynamic.
Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
God’s commandment to honor one’s father and mother applies to all parents and extends to step-parents as well. Honoring step-parents is a way of showing appreciation for their role in the family and the position they hold.
By honoring their step-parent, children not only fulfill God’s commandment but also invite blessings and prosperity into their lives. God promises long life in the land He has given as a reward for honoring and respecting parents, biological or otherwise.
Proverbs 23:22
“Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”
This proverb reminds children to listen to their fathers and not to despise their mothers, even as they age. The same principle applies to step-parents, who deserve respect and care regardless of their age.
As step-parents grow older, their wisdom and experience become even more valuable. It is important for children to continue to listen, value, and respect their step-parents, recognizing the contributions they have made throughout their lives.
1 Timothy 5:4
“But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.”
Although this verse specifically addresses the responsibility of caring for widowed parents and grandparents, the underlying principle can be applied to step-parents as well.
Children are encouraged to put their faith into practice by caring for their own family, including step-parents. This act of love towards step-parents not only demonstrates obedience to God but also gratitude for the love and care they have provided throughout their lives.
Proverbs 13:1
“A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.”
Wisdom is displayed by a child who listens and heeds their father’s instruction, including step-fathers. The willingness to receive guidance and correction reflects a humble and teachable spirit.
The opposite, a mocker who disregards and rejects rebukes, demonstrates arrogance and a lack of respect. Children who choose wisdom and willingly accept the guidance of their step-parents can grow in character and develop into individuals who are receptive to correction and instruction.
Proverbs 30:17
“The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley; it will be eaten by the vultures.”
This proverb uses strong imagery to emphasize the severity of mocking and scorning one’s father and mother, including step-parents. Disrespecting and dishonoring parents is viewed with great seriousness in God’s eyes.
Children are reminded to guard their words, thoughts, and attitudes towards their step-parents, treating them with respect and honor. By doing so, they can avoid the consequences that come as a result of mocking and scorning their parents.
Proverbs 6:20-22
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of treasuring and adhering to the commandments of one’s father and the teachings of one’s mother, including step-parents. The wisdom shared by parents serves as a guide and protector throughout a child’s life.
When children choose to internalize and live by their step-parents’ teachings, they receive the benefits of guidance and divine protection. The presence of parental wisdom provides direction and reassurance in all aspects of life.
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”
This psalm reminds us that children, regardless of their biological or step-parentage, are a precious gift from God. They hold intrinsic value and significance in His eyes.
Recognizing the worth and importance of children, including step-children, can help foster a mindset of love, care, and appreciation towards them. God’s view of children serves as a reminder to approach step-parenting with a sense of gratitude and responsibility.
Proverbs 14:26
“Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge.”
The fear of the Lord establishes a secure and protected environment for families, including children and step-children. Trusting in God’s faithfulness and seeking His guidance creates a refuge for children to find comfort and security.
Step-parents who fear the Lord and actively seek His wisdom become instrumental in providing a nurturing and safe atmosphere for their step-children. By cultivating a relationship rooted in faith, step-parents can become a source of refuge for their step-children in times of difficulty or uncertainty.
Proverbs 23:24
“The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will be glad in him.”
This proverb recognizes the joy and pride experienced by a righteous father who fathers a wise child. The bond between a father, biological or step, and a child is one of deep affection and happiness.
Step-parents have the opportunity to cultivate a relationship filled with wisdom and righteousness, leading to shared joy and gladness. Embracing the role of a caring and wise step-parent can bring immense fulfillment and delight to the family dynamic.
Psalm 103:13
“As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.”
God’s compassion towards His children serves as a reminder of the love and mercy that fathers, including step-fathers, should demonstrate to their own children.
A step-father who fears the Lord and seeks to emulate God’s compassion can positively impact the lives of their step-children. By modeling love, kindness, and understanding, step-parents can create an environment that nurtures the growth and well-being of their step-children.
1 Timothy 5:8
“But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
This verse stresses the importance of providing for one’s household, which includes step-children, as a demonstration of faith. Meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of step-children is a responsibility that should not be neglected.
A step-father who faithfully provides for his step-children displays a commitment to their well-being, reflecting the values of love, care, and responsibility that are expected of believers. By fulfilling this role, step-parents can serve as a tangible representation of God’s provision and grace.
Proverbs 20:7
“The righteous person leads a blameless life; blessed are their children after them.”
The righteous conduct and integrity of a parent, including step-parents, holds significance and blesses future generations.
A step-father who lives a blameless life and leads by example positively impacts the lives of their step-children. Their righteous actions become a source of blessing and guidance for the children, fostering a legacy of faith and righteousness for generations to come.
Proverbs 17:6
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.”
Grandchildren bring joy and honor to the elderly, just as children bring pride to their parents. This verse emphasizes the importance of the intergenerational relationships within families.
A step-father who fosters a healthy and loving relationship with their step-children becomes a source of joy and pride for both the children and their parents. Investing in these relationships can bring about deep and meaningful connections that span generations.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: ‘Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,'”
This verse reminds believers of the importance of listening attentively, choosing words wisely, and controlling anger in their interactions with others, including step-children.
A step-father who follows this advice creates an atmosphere of patience, understanding, and empathy for their step-children. By actively listening to their concerns, speaking with kindness, and managing anger appropriately, step-parents can nurture healthy and constructive relationships with their step-children.
Proverbs 1:9
“They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.”
Wisdom and instruction received from parents, which includes step-parents, are depicted as a garland and a chain that adorns and beautifies the individual.
Step-parents have the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of their step-children by offering valuable guidance and wisdom. Embracing this role not only benefits the step-child but also enhances the character and reputation of the step-father.
Ruth 1:16
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’
Ruth’s commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi, showcases a deep bond and loyalty that extends beyond biological connections. This verse exemplifies the potential for close and loving relationships between step-children and step-parents.
Step-fathers who foster an environment of trust, acceptance, and love can establish a profound connection with their step-children. By embracing them as their own and walking alongside them with unwavering support, step-parents can cultivate beautiful and lasting relationships.
Proverbs 29:17
“Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.”
The proper discipline and guidance of children, both biological and step, lead to a peaceful and harmonious family dynamic.
A step-father who lovingly disciplines and guides their step-children contributes to the overall well-being of the family. By instilling values, setting boundaries, and correcting behavior in a nurturing manner, step-parents play a pivotal role in raising respectful and responsible children.
Proverbs 22:6
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
Parents, including step-parents, bear the responsibility of guiding their children onto the right path. The principles and values instilled during childhood have a lasting impact on a child’s life.
Step-fathers who actively participate in the upbringing of their step-children by modeling godly behavior and teaching them moral values contribute to their future. Investing time, effort, and love into their step-children’s spiritual and emotional development can shape their lives for the better.
Psalm 34:14
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”
This psalm urges believers to turn away from evil, actively do good, and pursue peace in all relationships, including those with step-children.
Step-fathers who exemplify these qualities create an environment of love, harmony, and peace within the family. By demonstrating a commitment to righteousness and actively seeking peace, step-parents can contribute to the overall well-being of their step-children.
Proverbs 3:11-12
“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of not resenting discipline or rebuke, recognizing that it is an expression of love from God.
A step-father who corrects, guides, and disciplines their step-children does so out of a desire for their growth and well-being. By doing this in a loving and compassionate manner, step-parents demonstrate their care and concern for the development of their step-children.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Believers are called to demonstrate a devoted love towards one another, including step-family members. This verse highlights the importance of honoring and valuing each other’s worth.
Step-fathers who prioritize love, respect, and honor in their relationships with their step-children create an atmosphere of acceptance and unity. By treating their step-children with a selfless love, step-parents can foster an environment where trust and affection can flourish.
Titus 2:7-8
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”
Step-fathers are called to set an example for their step-children by living a life characterized by goodness, integrity, and godly speech. Through their actions and teachings, they can positively influence the lives of their step-children.
By demonstrating consistency in their character and behavior, step-parents establish themselves as trustworthy and reliable figures in the lives of their step-children. This example can leave no room for criticism or opposition, effectively shaping the perception and experience of their step-children.
1 Peter 3:8-9
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
This passage calls believers, including step-fathers, to exhibit qualities such as unity, sympathy, love, compassion, and humility. It emphasizes responding to negativity with kindness and blessings.
As step-parents, it is important to approach the challenges and difficulties that may arise with grace and understanding. By cultivating a heart of love and forgiveness towards their step-children, step-fathers can build meaningful relationships characterized by peace and mutual respect.
Psalm 127:1
“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”
Recognizing the Lord’s presence and guidance is paramount in building and maintaining a strong and loving step-family unit.
Step-fathers who seek God’s wisdom and rely on His guidance in their role as a step-parent create a foundation for a thriving family. By acknowledging God’s sovereignty and inviting Him into the transformation and growth of their blended family, step-parents ensure that their efforts are not in vain.
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
God’s sovereignty and guidance are essential in the journey of step-parenting.
Step-fathers who surrender their plans and desires to the Lord find comfort in knowing that He directs their steps. Trusting in God’s leading can bring peace, wisdom, and discernment as they navigate the unique challenges and joys of step-parenting.
Psalm 37:23-24
“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”
Those who find delight in the Lord can trust that He will establish and uphold their steps, even in the midst of challenges and uncertainties.
Step-fathers who delight in the Lord and seek His guidance can have confidence that He will provide the strength and support needed in their role as a step-parent. When difficulties arise, they can rely on God’s steadfast hand to guide and sustain them.
Being a step-parent can be a journey filled with unique challenges, emotions, and rewards. While these verses provide guidance and wisdom for step-parents and step-children alike, it is important to approach each situation with empathy, understanding, and open communication. Step-parenting requires patience, adaptability, and a willingness to demonstrate the love of Christ. By seeking God’s wisdom, leaning on His grace, and constantly striving for personal growth, step-parents can navigate the complexities of this role with strength and love.
As a Christian, I have witnessed the profound impact that step-parents can have on the lives of their step-children. I have seen step-fathers who wholeheartedly embraced their role, loving and caring for their step-children as their own. It is a testament to the power of God’s love and grace, which enables individuals to form loving and steadfast connections within blended families.