12 Bible Verses About Parenting

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Last updated:

As a Christian parent, it can be challenging to navigate the complexities of raising children.

Fortunately, the Bible offers guidance and wisdom on the topic.

In this article, we will explore twelve powerful Bible verses about parenting, as well as key chapters that provide further insight into this important role.

From discipline to setting a good example, the Bible emphasizes the importance of instilling faith and values in our children.

Let’s dive in and discover what the Bible says about parenting.

Bible verses about parenting

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about parenting:

1. “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
2. “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
3. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.” – Ephesians 6:1
4. “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” – Proverbs 22:15
5. “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” – Deuteronomy 6:6-7
6. “My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.” – Proverbs 1:8

7. “Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.” – Proverbs 29:17
8. “But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14
9. “The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.” – Proverbs 23:24
10. “And, ye fathers, be not bitter against your children, lest they be discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
11. “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.” – Proverbs 23:22
12. “Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” – Proverbs 17:6

What does the Bible say about parenting?

The Bible emphasizes the importance of parents teaching their children about God and His ways.

Parents are encouraged to discipline their children with love and to train them in righteousness.

The Bible also stresses the importance of setting a good example for children to follow and being patient and forgiving with them.

Additionally, parents are called to provide for their children’s physical and emotional needs and to prioritize their family relationships above other worldly pursuits.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about parenting?

1. Proverbs 22:6 – This chapter emphasizes the importance of training up a child in the way they should go, so that when they are older, they will not depart from it. This is relevant to parenting because it highlights the responsibility of parents to teach their children values and morals that will guide them throughout their lives.

2. Ephesians 6:1-4 – This chapter instructs children to obey their parents and encourages parents not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. This is relevant to parenting because it emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and communication between parents and children.

3. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 – This chapter instructs parents to teach their children about God’s commandments and to impress them on their hearts, talking about them when sitting at home, walking along the road, lying down, and getting up. This is relevant to parenting because it emphasizes the importance of instilling faith and spirituality in children from a young age.

4. Psalm 127 – This chapter emphasizes the importance of relying on God in all aspects of life, including parenting. It acknowledges that children are a gift from God and that parents must trust in Him to provide for their needs. This is relevant to parenting because it reminds parents to trust in God’s plan for their family and to seek His guidance in raising their children.

5. Colossians 3:20-21 – This chapter instructs children to obey their parents in everything and encourages parents not to embitter their children, so that they will not become discouraged. This is relevant to parenting because it emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and loving environment in the home, where children feel valued and respected.

Ideas and concepts related to parenting that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Discipline – The Bible emphasizes the importance of discipline in raising children. Proverbs 13:24 states, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” Discipline is necessary to teach children right from wrong and to help them develop self-control.

2. Love – The Bible teaches that love is the foundation of good parenting. Ephesians 6:4 says, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Love involves nurturing, caring, and providing for children, as well as setting boundaries and guiding them in the right direction.

3. Responsibility – The Bible teaches that parents have a responsibility to raise their children in a way that honors God. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This involves teaching children about God, modeling a godly lifestyle, and instilling values that reflect God’s character.

4. Forgiveness – The Bible teaches that forgiveness is essential in parenting. Colossians 3:13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Parents must be willing to forgive their children when they make mistakes, just as God forgives us when we repent.

5. Patience – The Bible teaches that patience is a virtue in parenting. James 1:4 says, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Raising children requires patience, as children are not perfect and will make mistakes. Parents must be patient and persevere in their efforts to raise their children in a godly way.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.