Modeling Christ For Your Kids

 

As Christian parents, one of the most important roles we have is modeling Jesus Christ for our children. While Sunday school, youth groups, and Bible studies are important, the most powerful witness in a child’s life often comes from what they see day in and day out at home. Children are incredibly observant. They listen to our words (sometimes, am I right?), but even more, they watch our actions. How we treat others, how we handle the stresses of life, how we speak when we lose our temper, how we seek forgiveness — these everyday moments teach them what it really means to follow Christ. If we want our kids to grow up loving Jesus, they need to see His love and grace lived out authentically in us. So let’s take a look at some practical ways we can model Christ for our kids. 

Be Quick to Apologize and Forgive

One of the most powerful ways to model Christ is by showing humility. We all make mistakes — no one is a perfect parent. But when we mess up, being quick to apologize to our children and ask for forgiveness demonstrates a heart that mirrors Christ’s love. In the same way, extending grace when they fail teaches them that God’s mercy is not just a concept, but a daily reality. 

Live Out the Fruits of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 tells us about the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These aren’t just virtues to admire from a distance or ideals to hope for; they are fruits to cultivate in our homes. Imagine the impact when a child grows up surrounded by patience instead of irritation, kindness instead of harshness, and faithfulness instead of inconsistency.

Prioritize God’s Word

Our children should see that the Bible is not just a book we bring to church but the foundation of our lives. Reading Scripture together, praying over decisions, and bringing God’s Word into daily conversations shows our kids that faith is not compartmentalized — it’s woven into every part of life.

Show Them How to Serve

Jesus came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). When we involve our children in acts of service — whether it’s helping a neighbor, volunteering at church, or supporting missions — we help them see that following Jesus means loving others sacrificially.

You don’t have to be a perfect parent to model Christ. You just need to be a parent who is continually seeking Him. Every day is an opportunity to show your children the beauty of a life walked hand-in-hand with Jesus.