While toys aren’t explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the Scriptures do talk about children, play, and the importance of training them up in the ways of the Lord. Let’s explore what the Bible says about how we should guide children’s play and development with godly principles.
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What Does The Bible Say About Toys
Matthew 18:3
“And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.’
This verse reminds us of the innocence and pure faith that children possess. It encourages us to approach our faith with childlike trust and simplicity, free from the distractions and complexities of the world.
While toys can bring joy and entertainment to children, this verse encourages us to focus on the true essence of our relationship with God and prioritize our spiritual growth above material possessions.
1 Timothy 6:7
“For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
This verse serves as a reminder that the things we possess in this world are temporary and fleeting. Our attachment to material possessions, including toys, should not overshadow our pursuit of eternal treasures.
Instead of placing undue significance on toys, we should focus on building a lasting relationship with God and investing in the things that have eternal value.
Proverbs 23:4
“Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.”
This verse advises against the pursuit of material wealth and encourages contentment with what we have. It reminds us that our worth and happiness should not be determined by the abundance of toys or possessions we acquire.
We should prioritize spiritual growth and seek God’s wisdom rather than relying on our own efforts and worldly success to bring us fulfillment.
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
These verses instruct us not to place our focus and value on earthly treasures that can be easily lost or destroyed. Rather, we are encouraged to invest in the treasures of heaven, which have eternal significance.
This reminds us that the value of toys and material possessions pales in comparison to the eternal rewards that come from a deep relationship with God.
James 4:4
“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
This verse warns us about becoming too attached to worldly desires and pleasures at the expense of our relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that our primary allegiance should be to Him, rather than chasing after the temporary happiness and satisfaction that toys and worldly possessions may offer.
While enjoying toys is not inherently wrong, this verse urges us to maintain a healthy perspective and prioritize our devotion to God above all else.
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’
This verse emphasizes that our true fulfillment and purpose in life do not come from possessing an abundance of toys or material possessions.
It encourages us to guard against greed and instead focus on cultivating a rich spiritual life and nurturing relationships based on love, kindness, and generosity.
1 John 2:15-16
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
These verses caution us against becoming too attached to the things of this world, including toys, and remind us that our true love should be reserved for God.
They warn against indulging in the temporary pleasures and desires that the world offers, as they ultimately distract us from our relationship with God.
Matthew 19:21
“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’
In this verse, Jesus challenges the wealthy man to let go of his material possessions, recognizing that they hindered his ability to fully follow Him.
While not everyone is called to sell everything they have, this verse highlights the importance of putting our treasure and identity in Christ above material possessions, including toys.
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
This verse reminds us to fix our thoughts and desires on heavenly matters and spiritual growth, rather than being consumed by earthly pursuits and material possessions.
While it is not wrong to enjoy toys and have earthly possessions, this verse challenges us to prioritize our pursuit of God and eternity above all else.
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’
This verse encourages contentment with what we have and warns against placing our love and trust in material possessions, including toys.
It reassures us that God’s presence and provision are sufficient, regardless of the abundance or lack of earthly possessions we may have.
Mark 8:36
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
This verse serves as a reminder that the pursuit of worldly possessions, including toys, can never compare to the value of our eternal souls.
It emphasizes the importance of investing in our spiritual growth and seeking God above all else.
Luke 16:13
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
These verses highlight the mutual exclusivity of serving God and pursuing wealth or possessions. They urge us to choose where our loyalty and devotion lie.
While enjoying toys and material possessions is not inherently wrong, this verse cautions us against allowing them to become a distraction or idol in our lives.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
These verses warn against the danger of becoming overly preoccupied with material needs and seeking after earthly treasures.
They encourage us to trust in God’s provision and prioritize our relationship with Him, knowing that He will take care of our needs.
Matthew 19:24
“Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
These verses remind us of the potential pitfalls that come with pursuing wealth and material possessions.
While toys can bring joy and entertainment to our lives, they should not supersede our commitment to seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness above all else.
Luke 12:32-34
“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
These verses encourage us to have an eternal perspective and value the treasures of heaven rather than becoming consumed by earthly possessions.
While enjoying toys is not inherently wrong, we are reminded to prioritize generosity and giving to those in need, recognizing that our treasures in heaven are of far greater value than any earthly possession.
Proverbs 28:25
“The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the LORD will prosper.”
This verse expresses the dangers of greed and the negative consequences that can follow when material possessions, including toys, become the primary focus of our lives.
It encourages us to place our trust and confidence in the Lord and find true prosperity in our relationship with Him, rather than in worldly pursuits.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
In the context of toys, this verse reminds us that our actions and choices, including how we use and prioritize our possessions, should ultimately bring glory to God.
If toys bring joy, they can be enjoyed and shared in a way that honors God and reflects His love to others.
Ecclesiastes 5:10
“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
This verse warns against the trap of never-ending desire for more possessions, including toys.
It reminds us that the pursuit of material wealth and possessions will never bring true satisfaction or fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of seeking contentment in our relationship with God.
Proverbs 22:16
“One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.”
This verse cautions against the unethical pursuit of wealth and urges us to consider the impact of our actions on others, particularly the marginalized and less fortunate.
It encourages us to use our resources, including toys, in a way that brings about justice, compassion, and generosity.
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
These verses highlight the dangers of placing too much importance on worldly possessions, including toys, and the potential harm that can result from pursuing material wealth above all else.
They encourage us to cultivate a genuine love for God and prioritize our faith over the pursuit of wealth and material gain.
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
This verse encourages us to cultivate a spirit of generosity and giving, recognizing that God blesses and multiplies what we offer to Him and others.
We should be willing to share our toys and possessions with others, leveraging them as opportunities to demonstrate God’s love and provision.
Proverbs 11:24
“One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly but comes to poverty.”
This verse highlights the principle of sowing and reaping, reminding us that generosity leads to abundance and blessings, while a selfish and hoarding attitude leads to poverty and lack.
As we enjoy our toys and possessions, we are encouraged to cultivate a generous spirit and share with others, reflecting God’s abundant provision.
Proverbs 13:7
“One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.”
These verses caution against the false notion that the accumulation of possessions, including toys, determines one’s true wealth and worth.
They remind us that true wealth lies in our relationship with God and the treasures we store up in heaven.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
In the context of toys, this verse encourages us to give and share with a joyful and willing heart, rather than out of obligation or compulsion.
As we enjoy our toys, we have an opportunity to bless others and reflect God’s love and generosity in our actions.
Psalm 37:3-5
“Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this.”
These verses remind us to trust in God’s provision and delight ourselves in Him, rather than placing our trust in material possessions, including toys.
By committing our way to the Lord and finding our joy in Him, we can trust that He will fulfill the desires of our hearts according to His perfect plan.