When a child strays from the right path, it can be heartbreaking for parents. The Bible offers hope and guidance for those facing this struggle, with promises of restoration and redemption. Let’s explore what scripture says about dealing with a wayward child and trusting in God’s grace for their return.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Our Future
What Does The Bible Say About A Wayward Child
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of teaching children about God’s ways and guiding them in righteousness. It gives hope that if parents faithfully instruct their children in the ways of the Lord, they will not easily stray from those teachings as they grow older.
However, it is essential to remember that this verse is not a guarantee of a child’s behavior but a general principle. Ultimately, each person must choose their own path and make their own decisions.
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
This verse highlights the responsibility of parents, particularly fathers, in raising their children. It encourages parents to avoid actions or behaviors that may anger or frustrate their children. Instead, parents are called to provide guidance and instruction rooted in the teachings of the Lord.
The instruction and discipline mentioned here should be done in love and patience, nurturing a child’s spiritual growth and character development rather than causing resentment or rebellion.
Proverbs 29:15
“The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.”
This verse acknowledges the importance of discipline in a child’s life. It suggests that a child who receives correction and guidance through discipline gains wisdom and understanding.
On the other hand, a child who lacks proper boundaries, guidance, and discipline may bring shame to their parents by making unwise choices and displaying rebellious behavior.
Proverbs 19:18
“Discipline your son, for there is hope; do not set your heart on putting him to death.”
This verse reinforces the concept of disciplining children with love and hope. It reminds parents that discipline, when administered properly, can correct and guide a wayward child back onto the right path.
The phrase “do not set your heart on putting him to death” serves as a caution against giving up on a child or resorting to extreme measures. Instead, parents should approach discipline with a mindset focused on restoration and transformation.
Proverbs 15:5
“A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.”
This verse emphasizes the distinction between a wise and foolish child. It illustrates that a child who disregards a parent’s instruction and correction demonstrates foolishness.
However, a child who listens to and takes to heart the reproof and guidance offered by their parents exhibits wisdom and discernment.
Proverbs 22:15
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.”
This verse recognizes that children are prone to foolishness and unwise choices. It suggests that discipline, symbolized here by the “rod,” can help drive away this inherent folly and steer a child towards more prudent behavior.
Discipline, when done with love and consistency, can shape a child’s character, helping them develop self-control and make wiser decisions.
Psalm 127:3-5
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!”
This passage paints a beautiful picture of children being a precious gift from God. It compares them to arrows in the hands of a warrior, highlighting their potential to impact the world.
Parents are called to cherish and raise their children in God’s ways, preparing them to be influential instruments in His kingdom.
Proverbs 13:24
“Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.”
This verse underscores the importance of discipline as an expression of love and care for a child. It suggests that withholding discipline can harm a child, indicating a lack of genuine love from the parent.
However, a loving parent is diligent in applying-discipline, understanding its role in shaping a child’s character and guiding them onto the right path.
Hebrews 12:11
“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
This verse reminds us that discipline may not always be enjoyable, but it yields positive results in the long run. It may cause temporary discomfort or pain, but it ultimately produces righteousness in the lives of those who have experienced and learned from it.
Parents who faithfully discipline their children can trust that their efforts will bear good fruit, shaping their character and leading them towards a life of righteousness.
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of treating children with respect and kindness. It warns fathers against behaviors that may provoke or embitter their children, as it can lead to discouragement and disillusionment.
Parents should strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment, valuing their children’s emotions and well-being.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of parents imparting God’s commandments and teachings to their children intentionally. It instructs parents to integrate discussions about the ways of the Lord into their daily lives.
Consistently talking about and exemplifying godly principles helps children understand and internalize God’s truth, making them less likely to stray from it.
2 Timothy 3:15
“And how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
This verse commends Timothy for his familiarity with the sacred writings, referring to the Old Testament Scriptures. It highlights the value of early exposure to God’s Word, which has the power to impart wisdom and equip individuals for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
Teaching children the Scriptures from a young age lays a strong foundation for their spiritual growth and paves the way for a personal relationship with Christ.
Proverbs 23:13-14
“Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.”
This verse emphasizes the necessity of discipline in a child’s life. It encourages parents not to withhold necessary correction, even if it involves physical means such as the “rod.”
The purpose of discipline in this context is not to harm or cause permanent damage but rather to save a child’s soul from the consequences of their actions and lead them on the path of righteousness.
Psalm 34:11
“Come, O children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.”
This verse illustrates the psalmist’s desire to teach children about the fear, reverence, and awe of the Lord. It invites children to open their hearts and minds, willing to learn and grow in their knowledge and understanding of God.
Parents and mentors have a crucial role in imparting the fear of the Lord to the younger generation through their words, actions, and examples.
Proverbs 1:8-9
“Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.”
This passage emphasizes the value and beauty of a child heeding their parents’ instruction and guidance. It compares the wisdom imparted by parents to an elegant garland or necklace.
Children who embrace their parents’ teachings and wisdom adorn themselves with valuable knowledge and understanding, which will benefit them throughout their lives.
Psalm 78:4
“We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.”
This verse captures the responsibility of passing on the stories and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to future generations. It encourages parents and elders to ensure that children are familiar with the remarkable works and miracles the Lord has performed.
Sharing these accounts strengthens a child’s faith and inspires them to seek a personal relationship with God.
Proverbs 20:11
“Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright.”
This verse emphasizes that a person’s character and true nature are revealed through their actions, even from a young age. Children can display purity and uprightness through their conduct, demonstrating the values and principles they have been taught.
Parents and caregivers should strive to model and instill godly virtues within children, helping them exhibit a righteous character.
3 John 1:4
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
This verse expresses the heartfelt joy that comes from witnessing children faithfully walking in the truth of God’s Word. It reflects the deep satisfaction and fulfillment that parents and mentors experience when they see children embracing and living out their faith.
Parents should prioritize nurturing their children’s spiritual growth and rejoice when they see them actively following the ways of the Lord.
Matthew 18:6
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.”
This verse highlights the severity of leading children astray and causing them to stumble in their faith. Jesus warns against being a stumbling block to those who believe in Him, illustrating the seriousness of such actions.
Parents, guardians, and all who have influence over children should strive to set a godly example, avoiding behaviors or attitudes that may hinder a child’s spiritual development.
Matthew 19:14
“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.'”
This verse emphasizes Jesus’ love and value for children. He encourages people to allow children to come to Him freely, assuring that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who have childlike faith.
Parents should encourage their children to develop a personal relationship with Jesus and foster an environment where they can experience His love and grace.
Psalm 144:12
“May our sons in their youth be like plants full grown, our daughters like corner pillars cut for the structure of a palace.”
This poetic verse portrays a desire for young people, both sons and daughters, to grow and flourish like well-nurtured plants or strong pillars.
Parents and mentors should aspire for the younger generation to mature and thrive, becoming pillars of strength and integrity, contributing positively to society.
Mark 9:36-37
“And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.'”
This verse illustrates Jesus’ emphasis on valuing and embracing children. He uses a child as an example, teaching that when we welcome and care for children in His name, we are actually receiving Jesus Himself and the One who sent Him.
Jesus elevates the importance of showing love, compassion, and care towards children, viewing it as an act of receiving and honoring Him.
Psalm 103:13
“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.”
This verse draws a parallel between a human father’s compassion towards his children and God’s compassionate nature towards those who fear and revere Him.
Parents are called to manifest a reflection of God’s compassion in their relationship with their children, nurturing and loving them as God loves and cares for His own.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”
This verse encourages young people to take their faith seriously and set a positive example for others, regardless of their age.
Children and teenagers have the capacity to influence their peers and older generations through their speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. They can display maturity and a genuine commitment to following Christ, earning the respect and admiration of others.