“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
This statement by Joshua is one of the most recognized in Scripture. It’s been put on plaques and hung on front doors innumerable times as a statement of faith. Yet, in reality, you can raise children who know right from wrong and still fail to lead them to God. So how do we go beyond merely instilling good morals and values?
Notice where Joshua starts: As for me. Settle your own commitment to the Lord first. Your personal walk with Jesus sets the tone for your children. The greatest parenting tool in your home isn’t authority but example. Kids look for authenticity. Show them what genuine faith looks like by living it out 24/7. Not in perfection—just sincere and genuine faith in Jesus Christ.
Joshua also took responsibility for his family’s spiritual discipleship. He didn’t ask if serving God was acceptable to the community at large. His concern was that his family knew and served God. What’s your greatest desire for your children? It’s easy to get caught up in their worldly successes and fail to prioritize their spiritual development. Pay more attention to what God says they need than what culture insists they must have or accomplish.
Start by setting godly standards and expectations for your home. Talk about the importance of your faith in Christ consistently and clearly. Then let them see what that looks like in your daily example. Practice biblical principles for a strong and healthy marriage. Your kids are watching how you communicate, handle conflict, and solve problems.
Finally, engage in a Bible-believing church as a regular practice. In other words, it’s always assumed on Saturday night that you’re going to church on Sunday morning. And don’t just attend—get involved. The question is never, “Will my child be discipled?” The real concern is, “By whom?” If you leave a void, they will be shaped by social media, friends, coaches, teachers…the list goes on and on.
You see, it’s not about simply instilling values that are good, but values that are godly. If you want to be able to say, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” remember that it starts with you and your commitment to Christ. Don’t merely teach your children how to live—teach them Who to live for by the example you set.
