Raising Godly Children, Not Just Children with Good Behavior

As parents, one of our most significant responsibilities is to nurture our children into responsible, loving, and kind individuals. While guiding them toward good behavior is an important aspect of this journey, we must understand that good behavior alone does not guarantee that our children will lead fulfilling and godly lives.

Our deeper goal should be to raise godly children, as highlighted in Malachi 2:15: “Didn’t the LORD make you one with your wife? In body and spirit you are his. And what does he want? Godly children from your union.” We must aspire to raise children whose hearts are aligned with God’s will and whose actions are rooted in a genuine relationship with Him.

Although good behavior is certainly important, it should not be viewed as the ultimate objective. A child's behavior can often be shaped by societal pressures, external influences, and temporary circumstances.

A child may display good behavior without truly understanding God's character and purpose, resulting in merely superficial qualities. In contrast, a godly child acts from a sincere love for God and others, embodying a heart filled with righteousness that naturally expresses itself through their actions.

To nurture godly children, we must concentrate on establishing a strong spiritual foundation and encouraging them to cultivate a personal relationship with God. Mind you, cultivating a personal relationship with God is different from just going to church; this includes:

- Teaching them about His love, grace, and purpose for their lives.

- Engaging in meaningful conversations about faith.

- Modeling a Christ-like behavior.

- Providing opportunities for spiritual growth are essential components of this process.

Ages while fostering good behavior in our children is necessary, our ultimate aim should be to raise godly children who reflect the heart of God in their lives. By prioritizing their spiritual development and guiding them toward a genuine relationship with Him, we empower our children not only to behave well but also to live lives rich in love, kindness, and righteousness.

In doing so, we lay the groundwork for them to contribute positively to the society, becoming beacons of light and hope in a society that desperately needs it.

Thank you all.

Dr. Nene Oluwagnohun

Family System Coach

Marriage and Family Therapist