📖 “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” – 3 John 1:4
As Christian parents and homeschoolers, this single verse from the tiny letter of 3 John carries a weight of eternal joy. It is not just a statement—it’s a prayer, a priority, and a promise. There is no greater joy than to know that our children are walking in God’s truth, anchored in His Word, and living lives shaped by His love.
But how does this happen? And how can we, as parents and mentors, cultivate this joy-filled reality in our homes?
🎯 More Than Academics
Homeschooling is a beautiful opportunity to shape not just your child’s education but their eternal direction. The ultimate goal is not perfect grades or a spotless schedule—it’s a heart that loves Jesus and walks in His ways.
- You may teach them reading, but do they hunger for God’s Word?
- You may train them in math, but do they count on God’s faithfulness?
- You may explore science, but do they marvel at their Creator?
What a joy it is when our children are not just “doing well” by worldly standards but are walking in the truth of Christ!
🌱 What Does It Mean to Walk in Truth?
Walking in truth means living according to the teachings of Scripture, with hearts surrendered to Jesus and lives that reflect His character.
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about walking with Him, step by step.
- Obeying when it’s hard (John 14:15)
- Loving others deeply (1 John 4:7)
- Standing firm in a confused world (Ephesians 6:13)
- Keeping God’s commands not out of duty, but delight (Psalm 119:35)
💛 The Joy of Spiritual Legacy
When John wrote this verse, he wasn’t speaking of biological children, but of spiritual children—those he had mentored in the faith.
As parents, we are our children’s first spiritual mentors. Our greatest legacy is not what we leave for our children, but what we leave in them.
- Have we modeled grace and repentance?
- Have we shown them how to turn to God in trouble?
- Have we shared our own testimonies and victories?
- Have we made God’s Word the foundation of our home?
The joy of a parent who sees their child living for Christ is unmatched. It’s the joy of a harvest after years of sowing in prayer, discipline, and love.
🧡 Devotion in Action: Living Out 3 John 1:4
Here are ways you can begin or continue to plant seeds that grow into children walking in the truth:
1. Start the Day with Scripture
Even one verse over breakfast can shape the day. Read, explain, and ask, “How can we live this today?”
2. Celebrate Growth, Not Perfection
Rejoice when your child chooses kindness, confesses sin, or asks spiritual questions. Praise spiritual growth more than performance.
3. Pray Aloud for Their Walk
Let your children hear your prayers for their faith. This not only intercedes for them, it models a relationship with God.
4. Live Authentically
Let your walk match your talk. Repent openly, worship freely, and let your home be filled with God’s presence.
📚 Bible Characters Who Walked in Truth (and the Joy It Brought)
- Timothy – Paul rejoiced in Timothy’s sincere faith, passed down from his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5). What a picture of generational discipleship!
- Samuel – Raised in the house of the Lord, Samuel heard God’s voice as a child and walked in obedience. Eli, though flawed, saw God’s hand on the boy (1 Samuel 3).
- Jesus at 12 – Mary and Joseph found Him in the temple, sitting among teachers, listening and asking questions. His heart was already walking in the truth of His Father’s business (Luke 2:46–49).
🙏 A Prayer for Today
Lord, thank You for the gift of children. Our deepest desire is that they would walk in Your truth—not just for a season, but for a lifetime. Help us to teach them well, love them deeply, and lead them faithfully. May our homes reflect the truth of Your Word, and may our hearts rejoice as we see them follow after You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
✍️ Reflection Questions
- What does “walking in truth” look like in my home today?
- How can I better disciple my children in their daily faith?
- What spiritual joy am I praying to see in my child’s life?
📂 Printable Devotional Companion (Coming Soon!)
To help bring this devotional to life, we’ll soon offer a free downloadable resource:
- “Walking in the Truth” Tracker
- Parent’s Prayer Journal Page
- Scripture Affirmations for Children
- 3 John 1:4 Verse Art for Your Home
💡Available after the 90-day blog series at www.christschooling.com
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