Parenting in the storm: Raising godly children in a broken culture

Parenting in today’s world can feel like navigating a storm. The challenges are numerous, and the world often seems to be filled with confusion, division, and brokenness. As parents, how do we raise children in a society that is increasingly distant from the values of the Gospel? How do we prepare them to be faithful followers of Christ, even when the world around them is constantly shifting and changing?

In this article, we’ll explore how to parent in a world that is broken, how to raise godly children amidst a storm of conflicting ideologies, and how to build a home where faith is nurtured, even in the face of adversity. This journey of parenting can be daunting, but with God’s guidance and a commitment to His Word, it is not only possible but a privilege.

The Broken World We Live In

The world today is marked by brokenness on many levels. Family structures are fragmented, moral standards are in flux, and the media often promotes values that stand in stark contrast to Christian teachings. In addition, children today are faced with unprecedented pressures. From social media’s influence on body image and self-worth to exposure to violence, injustice, and confusion about gender and identity, the storm of life can feel overwhelming.

The reality is that children are growing up in an environment where the message of the Gospel is often drowned out by voices calling them to live according to the ways of the world. The Bible acknowledges the brokenness of the world in Romans 8:22, stating, “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” But despite the brokenness, God has called parents to raise children who are steadfast in their faith, rooted in truth, and equipped to face life’s challenges.

The Role of Parents in Shaping Godly Children

As Christian parents, we are entrusted with the monumental task of raising children who reflect Christ in a world that doesn’t always understand or value that. While it is true that we cannot control every aspect of our children's lives, we can create an environment where they are exposed to the love, truth, and teachings of Christ. The primary responsibility for raising godly children lies with the parents, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, where God instructs His people, saying, “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.”

Here are some essential principles for raising children in a broken world:

1. Instill a Love for God’s Word

The foundation for raising godly children begins with a strong commitment to Scripture. The Bible is not just a collection of ancient stories or a moral guide; it is the living Word of God, which has the power to transform lives. It is through the Bible that we learn about God’s character, His love for us, His plan for salvation, and the way He desires us to live.

As parents, it is our responsibility to teach our children the Word of God, not just on Sundays, but in everyday life. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” By regularly reading Scripture together, memorizing verses, and discussing its application, parents lay a foundation that will guide their children throughout their lives.

Daily life offers countless opportunities to teach children about God’s truth. Whether it’s a quiet moment before bed or a conversation during a car ride, these moments provide opportunities to share the wisdom of Scripture. Make time to pray with your children and help them see how God’s Word speaks to their real-life situations.

2. Be Intentional About Discipling Your Children

Discipleship doesn’t just happen on its own. Parents must be intentional about discipling their children, guiding them in their walk with Christ. This means not only teaching them about God but also modeling the Christian faith in everyday life. Ephesians 6:4 instructs fathers, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”

Discipleship involves setting aside time for intentional spiritual growth. This can include family Bible studies, attending church together, participating in a youth group, and fostering an atmosphere of prayer and worship in the home. It also means answering your children's questions about faith, addressing their doubts, and offering wisdom when they face difficult decisions.

Be prepared for your children to ask tough questions—questions about suffering, evil, and the challenges they will face in life. Parenting in a broken world requires giving them solid answers from a biblical perspective, helping them see that even in a world of pain and confusion, God’s truth stands firm.

3. Model Christlike Character

Children learn by observing. As parents, our actions often speak louder than our words. If we want our children to grow up loving Christ and living according to His Word, we must model Christlike character in our own lives. 1 Corinthians 11:1 says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

This means living a life of integrity, humility, patience, kindness, and forgiveness. It means loving others as Christ has loved us, even when it’s difficult. Parents should strive to create an environment of grace and accountability in the home, where mistakes are acknowledged, repentance is encouraged, and forgiveness is freely given.

When your children see you dealing with life’s challenges—whether it’s a personal struggle, a family issue, or a global crisis—they will learn how to respond with faith. By demonstrating dependence on God and seeking His guidance through prayer, you teach your children that God is their ultimate source of strength and hope.

4. Teach Them to Be Light in the Darkness

In a world full of darkness and confusion, it is crucial that we teach our children to be a light to others. Matthew 5:14-16 calls Christians to be the light of the world, saying, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Parents should encourage their children to be bold in their faith, standing firm in what they believe, and loving others with the same love Christ has shown them. This means teaching them to stand up for truth, especially when it is countercultural, and to love those who are marginalized or oppressed.

Equip your children with a biblical worldview, helping them see the world through God’s eyes. Whether it’s issues like social justice, poverty, or the sanctity of life, help them understand that they have a role to play in making the world a better place, not by compromising their faith, but by living it out boldly and lovingly.

5. Create a Home of Peace and Stability

A broken world is often filled with chaos, and children can feel the effects of that. One of the best things parents can do is create a home that serves as a place of peace, love, and stability. Isaiah 26:3 promises, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” A Christ-centered home is a place where children can retreat from the noise and confusion of the world and find rest.

Parents should cultivate a home environment marked by love, respect, and safety. This means creating a rhythm of family life that allows time for connection, rest, and enjoyment. It means making the home a place where everyone can be heard, where conflicts are resolved with grace, and where prayer is a regular practice.

6. Pray for and with Your Children

Prayer is one of the most powerful tools a parent has in raising godly children. Philippians 4:6 encourages believers to “present your requests to God.” Praying for your children and with them is essential in a world where so many forces are pulling at their hearts and minds.

Pray for their protection, for their faith, and for wisdom as they navigate the challenges of growing up in a broken world. Encourage your children to pray as well, helping them to develop their own personal relationship with God through prayer. Whether it’s praying for a specific need or simply thanking God for His provision, prayer is a vital part of parenting.

Conclusion: Trusting God in the Storm

Parenting in a broken world can be daunting, but we can take heart because we serve a God who is greater than the storm. Psalm 34:17 reminds us, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” God is with us every step of the way, providing the wisdom, strength, and grace we need to raise children who will stand firm in their faith.

By grounding our children in God’s Word, modeling Christlike character, and creating a home of peace and stability, we equip them to be lights in a dark world. It’s not easy, and there will be challenges, but with God’s help, we can raise children who are strong in their faith, loving in their actions, and secure in their identity as children of God. As we trust in Him, He will guide us, and He will use us to raise the next generation to live for His glory, even in a broken world.