Using Scripture to teach children the value of life

Using Scripture to teach children the value of life

By Denise George
Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist

In a culture where life is often devalued and disrespected, churches and parents can affirm life by teaching our children the value of life through the lens of Scripture. 

How do we teach these truths? 

Through God’s word preached powerfully from the pulpit, taught in Bible study classes and read and studied regularly with parents and grandparents during family devotional times. 

Here are some Scripture suggestions for teaching children how God values life:

  • God creates human life and loves His children even as they develop and grow within their mother’s womb: “For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb … ” (Ps. 139:13–16). 
  • God knows each person and has a perfect plan for each life even before a child is born: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; and before you were born I consecrated you … ” (Jer. 1:5). 
  • God gives children as gifts to be valued and loved: “Behold children are a heritage from the Lord; the fruit of the womb a reward … ” (Ps. 127:3–4).

God’s word also expresses actions and attitudes adults should have toward children. 

The verses below remind adults, whether parents, grandparents or ministry leaders, how to respond and relate to young people.

  • Jesus called the children to Him even when others dismissed them: “Let the little children come to Me, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these … ” (Luke 18:16).
  • Jesus expects adults to respect children: “Whoever receives one child like this in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me does not receive Me but Him who sent Me” (Mark 9:37).
  • Jesus expects adults to love children: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven continually see the face of My Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 18:10).
  • Jesus expects adults to teach, nurture and keep children safe physically and spiritually: “So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish” (Matt. 18:14).

Affirming life

We can confidently affirm God-given life through God’s word, teaching our children essential lessons about the value and preciousness of life even as they live within a society that continues to devalue and cheapen life.