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The Bible presents parenting as one of the most significant callings in life. Deuteronomy 6:4–9 commands parents to teach God's Word to their children diligently — 'when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.' Proverbs is filled with parental wisdom, and Ephesians 6:4 calls fathers specifically to raise children 'in the training and instruction of the Lord.'
"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."
"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."
"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."
"Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him."
"Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them."
Proverbs 13:24 and 22:15 affirm loving discipline as essential to raising children well. Ephesians 6:4 balances this by warning fathers not to 'exasperate' children. The biblical model is discipline motivated by love and aimed at wisdom, not anger or control.
Deuteronomy 6:4–9 makes it clear: to teach children to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength — integrating faith into every aspect of daily life. Ephesians 6:4 adds 'the training and instruction of the Lord' as the father's specific charge.
The parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32) is the most direct biblical address to this situation. The father in the parable does not chase the son but watches and waits — and runs to embrace him when he returns. It models persistent love, prayer, and a ready welcome for returning children.