Scripture shows that loving a child means protecting their dignity, teaching them God's ways, and pointing them toward Jesus through both word and the gift of your own life.
Scripture on Loving A Child
1 Thessalonians 2:7-8
New Testament
"We were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."
Proverbs 22:6
Old Testament
"Start children off on the way they should go; even when they are old they will not depart from it."
Ephesians 6:4
New Testament
"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."
Deuteronomy 6:5-7
Old Testament
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."
Matthew 19:14
New Testament
"Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'"
The Bottom Line
A parent's love is most powerful when it reflects God's patient, purposeful love that shapes a child's soul for eternity.
Try Today
Sit with your child today—no agenda, no phones—and listen to what matters to them. Then pray for them by name before bed.
Prayer
Jesus invites us to come as children, trusting in His care (Matthew 11:28).
Father, You loved us while we were still sinners and gave Your Son for us. Teach me to love this child the way You love—with patience that doesn't give up, with truth spoken in kindness, and with a heart set on their good above my comfort. I confess I often love selfishly, demanding obedience without understanding. Give me wisdom to know this child's heart, courage to set boundaries that protect them, and the grace to point them to Jesus in the small moments and the big ones. Help me model what it means to be loved by You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
📚 Read Proverbs 1-10 for God's vision of parental wisdom and child-rearing
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