In a world that often celebrates self over surrender and pleasure over purpose, Christian parents face a holy calling that is both urgent and beautiful—to raise their children in the fear of the Lord.
This kind of fear is not dread or anxiety, but reverence, awe, and loving obedience to a holy God. It is the very foundation upon which wisdom, godly character, and eternal purpose are built.
As Psalm 111:10 reminds us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.”
When we raise our children to live in reverent awe of God, we’re giving them more than an education—we’re anchoring their souls in truth that transcends this life.
1. What Is the Fear of the Lord?
The “fear of the Lord” is a phrase woven throughout Scripture. It speaks of a deep respect and reverence for God, born from the understanding of His power, holiness, love, and justice. It’s an awareness that God is both near and sovereign—that He is our Father and King.
Proverbs 9:10 declares, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
This fear is not about punishment but about living in joyful submission to a God who is worthy of our awe and allegiance.
When we raise children in this kind of fear, we teach them to see all of life—relationships, choices, learning, and even struggles—through the lens of God’s Word and character.
2. The Parental Mandate
Parents are the first and most influential teachers in a child’s life. God designed families to be the training ground for faith, where children not only learn Scripture but see it lived out in daily life.
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 gives clear instruction:
“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.”
This is not a once-a-week Sunday routine. It is a continual, intentional lifestyle of discipling our children, so that God’s truth is rooted in their hearts.
3. Modeling the Fear of the Lord
Children learn far more from what we live than what we say. If we want them to revere God, we must show them what that looks like in our own lives.
Are we praying with sincerity? Do our words reflect God’s truth and grace? Do we honor the Lord in our decisions, speech, finances, and relationships? Are we quick to repent when we fall short?
Consider the example of Noah, who, “in reverent fear built an ark to save his family” (Hebrews 11:7). His obedience, though ridiculed by the world, displayed the fear of God—and that faith saved his household.
4. Biblical Examples of God-Fearing Upbringing
Samuel
Samuel’s story in 1 Samuel 1–3 shows us the power of early spiritual formation. His mother, Hannah, dedicated him to the Lord from birth. As a child, Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli, and his tender heart responded when God called his name.
“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening,” he said (1 Samuel 3:10).
A child raised to fear God becomes a vessel for His purposes.
Timothy
Paul commended Timothy’s sincere faith, which “first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice” (2 Timothy 1:5). These godly women passed on the fear of the Lord through faithful teaching and godly example, shaping Timothy into a courageous young pastor.
5. Practical Ways to Cultivate Godly Fear
a. Begin with Daily Prayer and Scripture
Make it a rhythm to start each day with God’s Word and prayer. Teach your children that God’s presence is real, and His Word is alive.
Let verses like,
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,” shape your conversations. – Proverbs 1:7
b. Memorize and Meditate Together
Choose a verse each week to memorize as a family. Talk about what it means, and how it applies to daily life. Make the Word of God part of your family language.
c. Worship and Serve as a Family
Worship at home through music, prayer, and reading Psalms aloud. Let your children see you worshipping God with joy. Involve them in acts of service—helping a neighbor, praying for someone in need, or writing a letter to missionaries. These actions teach that reverence for God overflows into love for others.
d. Discipline That Points to God’s Holiness
When discipline is necessary, connect it to God’s standard—not just your rules. Explain that disobedience ultimately dishonors the Lord, and use it as a moment for grace and heart transformation, not just correction.
6. Addressing the Challenges
Raising children in the fear of the Lord is countercultural, especially in secular environments. Whether in the USA, UK, Australia, or Europe, Christian families are swimming upstream. Culture promotes independence from God; we are called to raise children dependent on Him.
But take heart—
“The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love” (Psalm 33:18).
This journey requires patience, perseverance, and prayer. But we are not alone. God partners with us as we honor His ways in our homes.
7. The Fruit of a God-Fearing Life
The fruit of raising children in the fear of the Lord is long-lasting. It leads to:
- Wise decisions: “He will instruct them in the ways they should choose” (Psalm 25:12).
- Steadfast character: “Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments” (Psalm 112:1).
- Peace and purpose: “The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble” (Proverbs 19:23).
Children rooted in God’s truth grow into adults who know where to turn in life’s storms, who lead others to Christ, and who live with eternity in view.
Conclusion: A Holy Legacy
As parents, our greatest legacy is not academic success or worldly accomplishment—it’s godly children who fear the Lord and walk in His ways. Christian homeschooling gives us the sacred opportunity to weave this reverence into every subject, every moment, and every conversation.
Let us echo the heart of Joshua:
“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).
Let us raise sons and daughters who revere the Lord above all else—who know Him, love Him, and follow Him all the days of their lives. For in fearing the Lord, they will find wisdom, strength, and true life.
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