Raising Children in the Way They Should Go

Text: Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

Introduction

Children are a gift from God, but they are also a responsibility. The way we raise them has a lasting impact on their future. Proverbs 22:6 is both an encouragement and a challenge for parents, guardians, and mentors. It reminds us that training a child in God’s ways will have lifelong effects.

Today, we will explore three key lessons from this verse:

1. The Importance of Early Training
2. The Right Way to Train a Child
3. The Lifelong Impact of Godly Training

I. The Importance of Early Training

“Start children off on the way they should go…”

The word “start” emphasizes that training must begin early. A child’s heart and mind are like fertile soil—what we plant in them during their formative years will grow and bear fruit.

Biblical Example:

• Hannah and Samuel (1 Samuel 1:27-28, 3:1-10) - Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord at a young age, and he grew up to be a great prophet of Israel.

Application: Parents, teachers, and mentors must intentionally teach children about God’s ways from an early age, laying a strong foundation of faith and character.

II. The Right Way to Train a Child

“On the way they should go…”

Children must be guided in the right way—not just any way. This includes:

• Teaching them God’s Word (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
• Setting a godly example (Titus 2:7)
• Correcting and disciplining in love (Proverbs 13:24)
• Encouraging their unique gifts and calling (Psalm 139:14)

Biblical Example:

• Jesus’ Childhood (Luke 2:52) - Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man because He was nurtured in a godly environment.

Application: Every child is unique. As we train them, we must seek God’s wisdom to guide them according to His plan for their lives.

III. The Lifelong Impact of Godly Training

“Even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

Godly training leaves a lasting mark. Though children may stray at times, the foundation built in their early years will often bring them back to God.

Biblical Example:

• The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) - Even though he strayed, he remembered his father’s house and returned.

Application: Parents should not lose heart if their children wander from the faith. Keep praying, trusting that God’s Word planted in their hearts will draw them back in His timing.

Conclusion

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us that raising children in God’s ways is a lifelong investment. Start early, train them according to God’s truth, and trust that the seeds of faith will bear fruit in their lives.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the children You have entrusted to us. Help us to train them in Your ways with love, patience, and wisdom. May the seeds of faith we plant in their hearts grow and guide them throughout their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.