“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” – Proverbs 18:21 (KJV)
Have you ever said something to your child or grandchild, only to realize later that it cut deeper than you intended? Words shape hearts, and in parenting, they carry eternal weight.
Ten-year-old Sheyi dreaded each time his mother sent him to his grandmother’s house. Though his grandmother loved him, her sharp tongue left wounds that her hugs couldn’t heal.
“Get your bum off that couch and play soccer, ya sack of taters,” she once said. She thought Sheyi was too young to understand her lingo—but he understood every word, and it pierced his heart.
This story is a reminder that, as parents and caregivers, the words we speak can either build up or tear down. Godly parenting calls us to be intentional with our words, to nurture with grace, and to guide with wisdom rooted in Scripture.
The Power of Words in Godly Parenting
God’s Word makes it clear: our tongue has power. Sheyi’s grandmother didn’t mean to harm him, but her careless words created insecurity. Similarly, when parents or caregivers speak harshly, they unknowingly plant seeds of rejection, fear, or self-doubt.
“Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” – Ephesians 4:29
As godly parents, we are called to choose uplifting language that shapes a child’s heart in truth, love, and encouragement.
Bridging the Generational Gap with Grace
Grandparents often raise children differently than parents do today. Each generation has its values, struggles, and blind spots. But Scripture reminds us to honor our parents:
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” – Exodus 20:12
Parents play a bridge role between children and grandparents:
- Teaching children to respect elders.
- Guiding grandparents to understand today’s challenges.
- Creating a culture of open, gracious communication.
This ensures children grow up with both roots of tradition and wings of understanding.
Teaching Children Their Identity in Christ
Sheyi’s mother gave him the phrase “metabolically challenged” to help him cope. While creative, Scripture gives us an even stronger identity to stand on. A child’s worth is not in size, looks, or abilities but in being fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” – Psalm 139:14
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works…” – Ephesians 2:10
Parents must constantly affirm children’s God-given identity. When children know who they are in Christ, negative words lose their power.
Practical Biblical Parenting Tips for Encouraging Speech
- Pray before you speak: Ask God for wisdom (James 1:5).
- Replace criticism with correction in love: Instead of saying, “You’re lazy,” say, “I believe you can do better because God has given you strength.”
- Affirm daily: Speak blessings over your children every morning (Numbers 6:24–26).
- Teach empathy: Help children understand how their words affect others (Matthew 7:12).
Creating a Home of Edification
Godly parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. A Christ-centered home must be a haven of encouragement, not a battlefield of harsh words.
“Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
“But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
When children feel valued, loved, and heard, they will thrive not just emotionally, but spiritually.
Conclusion & Encouragement
Sheyi’s story reminds us that words weigh more than we realize. As godly parents, grandparents, and caregivers, let us lean on the wisdom of God’s Word to speak life into our children. May our homes be filled with words of hope, encouragement, and truth that reflect the heart of Christ.
Prayer for Parents
“Lord, set a guard over my lips. Let my words be seasoned with grace, full of truth, and rich in love. Help me speak life into my children and guide them in the way they should go. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Call to Action
💬 What are some words of encouragement you speak over your children?
Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
📢 If this post blessed you, share it with another parent, grandparent, or caregiver who needs encouragement today.
Remain Ever Blessed
