Christ Schooling

Tag: parenting with purpose

  • What the Bible Says About Truth and Morality

    “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.” – John 17:17

    In a world where truth feels negotiable and morality is often based on personal preference, how do we raise children to know what is truly right and wrong? The Bible gives us a clear answer: Truth is not a concept created by culture—it is a person. It is Jesus Christ. And morality is not defined by feelings—it is grounded in the character of God.

    In this blog, we’ll explore how to teach your children a biblical view of truth and morality, helping them walk in discernment, integrity, and grace in a morally confused world.

    1. What Is Truth According to the Bible?

    Truth is not merely factual correctness—it’s rooted in the very nature of God.

    • Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
    • Psalm 119:160 declares, “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.”
    • John 17:17 reminds us, “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.”

    In a culture that says, “Live your truth,” the Bible boldly proclaims: there is only one truth, and it comes from God. Truth is unchanging because God is unchanging (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8).

    Application for your homeschool: As you teach your children to read and reason, anchor their learning in the truth of God’s Word. Start your school day with Scripture. Encourage them to ask, “What does God say about this?” in every subject.

    2. God’s Standards of Morality vs. the World’s Confusion

    Biblical morality is not about cultural trends or emotional opinions—it’s about what pleases God.

    • The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) reveal God’s moral law.
    • Jesus summarized the law as loving God and loving others (Matthew 22:37–40).
    • Isaiah 5:20 warns, “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil…”

    In today’s world, morality is often defined by slogans like “You do you” or “Love is love.” But biblical morality calls us to holiness, obedience, and righteousness. Morality isn’t about earning salvation—it’s about living in a way that reflects the character of our Savior.

    3. Teaching Children to Discern Right from Wrong

    Helping children develop a biblical moral compass means equipping them to evaluate the world through Scripture:

    • Use daily experiences as teachable moments.
    • Ask, “What does the Bible say about this?”
    • Read Proverbs together—it is full of moral wisdom.
    • Study the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) as a family to understand Kingdom values.

    Tip: Model integrity in your own life. Kids learn morality by watching how we speak the truth, make decisions, and ask for forgiveness when we fail.

    4. How to Respond to the World’s Lies

    Equip your children to spot false ideas with the lens of Scripture. Here are a few common cultural lies—and the biblical truth to counter them:

    Cultural LieBiblical Truth
    “Truth is whatever feels right to you.”“The heart is deceitful above all things.” – Jeremiah 17:9
    “Follow your heart.”“Trust in the Lord with all your heart…” – Proverbs 3:5–6
    “If it makes you happy, it’s right.”“In those days… everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” – Judges 21:25

    Train your kids like the Bereans, who “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so” (Acts 17:11). Teach them that even popular messages must be weighed against God’s Word.

    5. The Gospel: The Heart of Truth and Morality

    Here’s the beautiful reality: all have sinned (Romans 3:23), and no one is righteous on their own (Romans 3:10). Morality points us to our need for a Savior.

    As you teach your children what is right, always point them to Jesus, who:

    • Fulfilled the law perfectly.
    • Died for our moral failures.
    • Offers forgiveness and grace.

    Truth without grace leads to legalism. Grace without truth leads to compromise. But truth and grace together lead to life (John 1:14).

    6. Living It Out in Your Homeschool

    Here are some practical ways to make truth and morality a natural part of your homeschool:

    ✅ Bible-Based Discussions: Use stories from history, literature, or current events to talk about right and wrong. Ask, “What do you think God says about this?”
    ✅ Memorize Scripture: Verses like Micah 6:8, Romans 12:2, and Philippians 4:8 help shape worldview.
    ✅ Family Devotion Time: Study topics like the Ten Commandments or the fruit of the Spirit.
    ✅ Grace-Filled Discipline: When correction is needed, always connect it to God’s truth and His love.

    📂 Coming Soon: Free Faith-Based Printables

    To make these lessons easier and more engaging, we’ll soon release these free resources:

    ✅ Bible Truth vs. Cultural Lies Sorting Activity
    ✅ “God’s Moral Law” Coloring Pages
    ✅ Memory Verse Cards on Truth and Morality
    ✅ “My Moral Compass” Devotional Journal Page

    💡Stay tuned to www.christschooling.com for free downloads after the 90-day blog series!

    🙏 Final Encouragement

    Teaching truth and morality in today’s world is countercultural—but it’s one of the most loving things we can do for our children. We’re not just raising rule-followers. We’re raising disciples of Jesus, rooted in the truth that sets them free.

    “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” – 3 John 1:4

    Stay rooted in the Word, parent in the Spirit, and trust God for the fruit.

  • Managing Time – Balancing Academics and Bible

    🕰️ Managing Time: Balancing Academics and Bible

    Day 30 – Christ Schooling 90-Day Blog Series
    Week 5: Building a Christian Learning Environment

    “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
    — Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

    In the beautiful, busy rhythm of homeschooling, it can feel like there’s never enough time. Between math lessons, science experiments, grammar rules, laundry piles, snack times, and spiritual training—parents often wonder: How can I possibly do it all?

    The truth is, you’re not meant to “do it all.” You’re called to do the most important things well—and the most important thing is building your home on the Word of God. Balancing academics and Bible instruction is not about giving equal hours to both, but about making sure that everything is rooted in the truth of Scripture and guided by the Spirit of God.

    Let’s explore how to manage time in a way that invites peace, purpose, and the presence of Christ into your homeschool day.

    📖 Start With the Foundation: God’s Word Comes First

    Before pencils are sharpened or books are opened, remember the foundation: God’s Word must lead the way.

    In Deuteronomy 6:6–7, God instructed His people:

    “These words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…”

    This passage isn’t about adding a separate Bible subject. It’s a call to weave God’s truth into the entire day—when we sit, walk, rise, and lie down. That means Scripture isn’t competing with academics. It shapes the way we approach academics.

    Start the day with prayer, a short devotional, or a Psalm. Let the Bible become the compass that orients your family each morning, however simple that time may be.

    🧭 Seek First the Kingdom… Then the Curriculum

    In Matthew 6:33, Jesus gives a liberating principle for managing priorities:

    “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

    We don’t have to scramble to fit Jesus into a busy schedule. When we begin with Him, He aligns the rest.

    Try creating a Christ-centered routine instead of a rigid schedule:

    • 📚 Morning Time: Devotions, memory verses, worship songs
    • 🧠 Core Academics: Math, language, science, etc.
    • 🧺 Life Skills: Chores, cooking, gardening
    • 💬 Discussion Time: Talk about current events or family issues through a biblical lens
    • 🎨 Creative Time: Art, music, nature journaling with faith connections
    • 🙏 Closing Prayer or Gratitude Time at day’s end

    Let God lead, and be flexible. Some days will tilt more toward academics, others toward spiritual conversations—and that’s okay.

    🕊️ Interruptions Are Opportunities, Not Inconveniences

    Homeschooling is life-on-life. You will be interrupted: by spilled milk, by a child’s emotions, by a neighbor’s need.

    Don’t see these as obstacles to your schedule. Sometimes they are God’s divine appointments.

    In Mark 1:35, we read:

    “Very early in the morning… Jesus got up… and prayed.”

    Even Jesus, though constantly surrounded by needs, prioritized solitude with the Father. He models intentionality without rigidity. He allowed Himself to be moved with compassion, to pause, to listen, to heal.

    So should we. Interruptions can become teachable moments—lessons in patience, prayer, repentance, or worship.

    📅 Practical Tools for Time Management

    Here are some helpful ideas to balance both faith and academics without burning out:

    ✅ 1. Establish Anchors, Not Hour-by-Hour Schedules

    Use flexible time blocks rather than fixed times. For example:

    • Morning Block: Devotion + Reading
    • Midday Block: Math + Science
    • Afternoon Block: Outdoor time + Creative work

    ✅ 2. Keep a “Must-Do” and “May-Do” List

    Prioritize non-negotiables (like prayer, Bible reading, and core subjects), and allow margin for enrichment activities.

    ✅ 3. Involve Your Children

    Let them help plan the schedule. Give them responsibility over their time and teach them what it means to steward it wisely.

    “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:15–17

    ✅ 4. Sabbath Moments

    Take one day to rest, reflect, and worship. It renews the soul and teaches your children that their identity is not in productivity, but in Christ.

    🛠️ Coming Soon: Christ-Centered Homeschool Planner!

    To help you apply these ideas, we’ll be offering a free printable Christ-Centered Homeschool Planner, which includes:

    • Weekly Bible + Academic Layout
    • Memory Verse Tracker
    • Devotion + Gratitude Journal Pages
    • Time Block Planning Sheets
      ✨ Stay tuned on www.christschooling.com after the 90-day blog series!

    ❤️ Final Encouragement: Grace Over Guilt

    You’re not failing when things don’t go according to plan. You’re parenting, pastoring, and persevering—all in one. And God sees your effort.

    Remember: You are not alone in this. The Holy Spirit is your helper, and the Word is your guide. The goal isn’t to check off every subject—it’s to raise children who love Jesus and see Him in every part of life.

    So take a deep breath, seek His wisdom, and press on with joy.

    “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1

  • What Is Discipleship and Why It Matters at Home

    “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
    — Matthew 28:19–20

    When Jesus gave His final instructions to His followers, He didn’t just tell them to believe—He called them to make disciples. While many interpret this as a call to global missions (and rightly so), it begins in the most immediate mission field God has entrusted to us: our homes.

    Discipleship is not just a church word or a Christian trend. It is the heartbeat of the Great Commission, and it starts with the people closest to us—our children. As Christian parents, especially those homeschooling or discipling at home, we are invited into one of the most sacred roles on earth: raising disciples of Jesus Christ under our own roof.

    Let’s explore what discipleship truly is, why it matters so deeply at home, and how we can walk faithfully in this calling—step by step, with joy and grace.

    🏠 Discipleship Begins at Home

    Before there were churches, seminaries, or youth groups, there was the family. In God’s original design, the home was always meant to be a discipleship center—a place where children are taught to love, obey, and walk with the Lord.

    Deuteronomy 6:6–7 says:

    “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, when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

    Discipleship is not limited to Bible study time. It is a lifestyle. From sunrise to bedtime, in everyday moments, God calls parents to disciple their children by modeling, teaching, correcting, and walking in His truth together.

    📖 What Is Discipleship? (Biblically Defined)

    To be a disciple is to be a follower of Jesus—one who learns from Him, imitates Him, and grows to become like Him (Luke 6:40). Discipleship, then, is the process of training someone in the way of Christ.

    Jesus demonstrated this so clearly. He lived life with His disciples, teaching them through:

    • Parables and Scripture
    • Personal example
    • Loving correction
    • Intimate prayer
    • Service and sacrifice

    He didn’t just inform their minds—He transformed their hearts. Likewise, as parents, we are called not just to pass on Christian facts, but to form Christian lives.

    Luke 9:23 says:

    “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

    Teaching our children to be disciples involves daily surrender, intentional time, and pointing them again and again to the beauty of Christ.

    🌱 Why the Home Is the First Mission Field

    The local church is vital, but it cannot replace the daily influence of parents in shaping a child’s faith. The home is where our children:

    • Learn to pray
    • Witness authentic repentance
    • Ask tough questions
    • See how faith responds to trials
    • Discover their purpose in God’s plan

    Ephesians 6:4 gives us this charge:

    “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

    Homeschooling parents especially have a precious opportunity: hours of daily influence to pour truth into their children’s hearts—not only through academics but through biblical worldview, godly character, and real-life application.

    🎯 Christian Parenting vs. Discipleship

    Many Christian parents aim to raise well-behaved, respectful kids who go to church. That’s a good start—but discipleship goes deeper.

    • Christian parenting might focus on morality.
    • Discipleship focuses on heart transformation.
    • Christian parenting may emphasize rules.
    • Discipleship emphasizes relationship with Jesus.

    We’re not just raising children to avoid sin—we’re raising them to love righteousness, to seek God’s will, and to live for His glory.

    Philippians 2:5 reminds us:

    “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”
    That’s the goal of discipleship—Christlikeness.

    📅 Everyday Moments Are Discipleship Moments

    One of the most beautiful truths is that discipleship doesn’t always happen in “scheduled” times. God uses ordinary moments to shape eternal souls.

    Try these simple daily discipleship practices:

    • Pray together before meals and before bed
    • Listen to worship music while driving
    • Use conflicts as a springboard for gospel truths
    • Discuss how God is working in the day’s events
    • Share your personal faith journey honestly

    Discipleship is about being present and intentional—living your faith with your child, not just preaching at them.

    ✝️ Jesus: The Ultimate Discipler

    Let us never forget—Jesus is our model. As He walked with His disciples, He showed patience when they were slow to learn, compassion when they failed, and unwavering commitment to their growth.

    John 1:14 says:

    “The Word became flesh… full of grace and truth.”

    That’s how we disciple our children: with grace and truth. Not harshly, not permissively—but faithfully, as Christ has done for us.

    When we mess up (and we will), let our children see us repent. When we succeed, let us give God the glory.

    🌍 Disciples Who Make Disciples

    Discipleship is not just about this generation—it’s about the next.

    Paul told Timothy:

    “What you have heard from me… entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2:2)

    When we disciple our children, we are raising disciple-makers—future parents, pastors, missionaries, workers, and friends who will carry the gospel forward. It begins with faithfulness today.

    Timothy’s faith came from his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois (2 Timothy 1:5). That legacy began at home.

    🏡 Final Encouragement: You Are Already Called

    Discipleship can feel daunting—but you are not alone. God equips whom He calls. His Spirit will guide you, strengthen you, and fill in the gaps where you feel weak.

    Psalm 127:1 declares:

    “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.”

    You are not the builder—God is. Your role is to be a faithful servant in the work He is doing in your child’s heart.

    Take heart. Start small. Be consistent. Trust God with the results. You are sowing seeds that will one day bear fruit for eternity.

    🙏 Let’s Pray

    Father, thank You for entrusting us with these little disciples. Help us to walk in wisdom, grace, and truth as we raise them in Your ways. May our homes be places where Jesus is known, loved, and followed. Give us strength and joy in this high calling, and may our children grow to love and serve You all their days. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

  • 5 Bible Verses Every Parent Should Teach Their Child

    5 Bible Verses Every Parent Should Teach Their Child

    In a world filled with shifting values, overwhelming distractions, and countless voices competing for our children’s attention, there’s one voice that remains steady, true, and life-giving—the voice of God through His Word.

    As Christian parents, especially those called to homeschool, our highest privilege is to help our children know, love, and walk in the truth of Scripture. And this begins with teaching them the Word of God intentionally, starting from a young age.

    Helping our children hide God’s Word in their hearts

    The Bible isn’t just a book of stories. It’s a manual for life, a source of divine wisdom, and a lamp for our feet (Psalm 119:105). When children are taught Scripture early, they grow with a foundation that can withstand life’s storms.

    As Psalm 119:11 says,

    “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

    Let’s look at five powerful Bible verses every parent should plant deep into their children’s hearts, along with ways to live them out daily in a Christ-centered home.

    🌿 1. Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trusting God Always

    “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

    Why this matters for children:
    In a world that encourages self-reliance and independence, this verse teaches children that true security and direction come from trusting God completely. It lays the foundation for a faith that looks beyond feelings or logic and rests in God’s sovereign wisdom.

    How to teach it:
    Share stories of biblical characters like Joseph, who trusted God despite betrayal and hardship, and how God guided his steps. Encourage your child to pray about big and small decisions, modeling what it means to submit every part of life to the Lord.

    📝 Family activity: During your homeschool day, pause before a new subject or challenge to say, “Let’s trust God with this!” Memorize the verse together with hand motions for “trust,” “heart,” and “path.”

    🌿 2. Ephesians 6:1–3 — Honoring Parents and God’s Design

    “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’”

    Why this matters for children:
    This verse directly connects obedience and honor with God’s blessing. Teaching children to respect authority is a biblical principle that reflects how we relate to God Himself.

    How to teach it:
    Use the story of Jesus as a child (Luke 2:51), who obeyed Mary and Joseph, even though He was the Son of God! Explain that obedience isn’t just about rules, but about honoring God’s design for families.

    🎯 Practical tip: Praise acts of obedience and honor, linking them back to this verse. Encourage open conversation about the why behind obedience and let them see you honoring God’s order as well.

    🌿 3. Philippians 4:13 — Strength in Christ

    “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

    Why this matters for children:
    This verse empowers children to face difficulties with confidence—not in their abilities, but in Christ’s strength. It’s especially helpful during homeschool challenges, tests, or social anxiety.

    Biblical example:
    Remind them of David facing Goliath, a boy who overcame a giant not by size or skill, but by faith in God’s strength.

    How to teach it:
    Make this verse a daily declaration. Stick it on their study desk. When they feel overwhelmed, say it out loud together. Let them see you rely on this verse too in your own struggles.

    ⚔️ Application: Whether it’s learning math, riding a bike, or dealing with fear, affirm: “You can do this through Christ who gives you strength.”

    🌿 4. Psalm 119:11 — Hiding God’s Word in Our Hearts

    “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

    Why this matters for children:
    This verse shows the value of memorizing Scripture—not just as words, but as spiritual armor. It teaches children that knowing God’s Word is the best way to guard their hearts and make wise choices.

    Biblical tie-in:
    Talk about Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4). He used Scripture to resist temptation—an example of the Word hidden in the heart.

    🕯 Practical tip: Create a Scripture memory wall or box. Use songs, crafts, and repetition. Celebrate milestones—make the Word of God joyful and celebratory!

    🌿 5. Luke 10:27 — Loving God and Others

    “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

    Why this matters for children:
    This verse sums up the greatest commandment and the heart of the Gospel. It teaches that life isn’t just about knowledge or success—but about loving God and loving others deeply and sacrificially.

    How to teach it:
    Point to stories like the Good Samaritan, or Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi. Ask your child, “How can we love God today? How can we love someone else well?”

    ❤️ Daily rhythm: Begin the day with this prayer: “Lord, help us love You and others today.” Make it part of your homeschool mission.

    👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Teaching the Word is a Daily Journey

    Parents, we don’t need to have perfect answers or degrees in theology to teach God’s Word. We just need willing hearts, open Bibles, and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

    As you homeschool your children, remember: you are not just educating minds, but discipling hearts.

    Like Lois and Eunice with young Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5), your consistent, faith-filled teaching can shape a life of strong and sincere faith.

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

    So let’s treasure God’s Word, repeat it, talk about it, sing it, and pray it—because what we teach today will echo into eternity.

    📚 Final Encouragement

    Don’t underestimate the power of a verse planted in a little heart. God’s Word is living and active—it transforms, comforts, convicts, and guides.

    Start small. Stay faithful. Keep sowing.

    And watch what God will do. 🙌