Have you heard of speaking truth over your child’s life? I wasn’t familiar with this concept until a few years ago, but I wish I had known about it earlier in my parenting journey. Let’s dive into what it means, why it’s important, and how we can speak truth over our children. (Plus, enjoy a free Valentine’s Day printable that complements this perfectly!)
What is Speaking Truth Over Your Child’s Life?
As Christian parents, we are responsible for impressing the truth of God’s Word on our children’s hearts. In a world filled with competing messages, we have to counter the lies they might hear by speaking God’s truth.
Speaking truth over your children means sharing who God is and who He created them to be. It’s not about boosting their self-esteem—it’s about speaking scripture over their lives, reminding them of God’s character, and helping them understand their identity through Him.
Why is It Important to Speak Truth?
We speak truth over our children to prepare them for spiritual battles. The Bible reminds us that life is full of challenges and temptations, and we want our children to be ready. Just like the angel who spoke truth over Gideon in the Bible (Judges 6), reminding him who he was created to be, we need to speak God’s truth over our children so they grow up knowing who they are in Christ.
Speaking truth is also a way to silence the enemy. Jesus used scripture to silence Satan during temptation. In the same way, we can fill our homes (and classrooms) with truth to help our children combat the lies they will encounter.
When and How to Speak Truth Over Your Child
You can speak truth over your children at any time, but some of the best moments are during bedtime, mealtime prayers, or even car rides. These are times when you’re naturally together, and it doesn’t have to be a big, formal moment. Simply praying scripture over your children or speaking God’s truth into their hearts can make a powerful impact.
For example, when I say goodbye to my niece, I whisper in her ear, “You are loved. You were created in God’s image with a hope, a future, and a promise.” It’s a simple way to remind her of her identity in Christ. I also speak truth over my teens while driving. Sometimes it’s easier when we aren’t face-to-face. These quiet moments can become stepping stones in their faith journey.
How to Start Speaking Truth Over Your Child
If you’re new to this, it might feel awkward at first, but that’s okay. Start small and keep it simple, especially with younger children. As they grow, so can the depth of your words.
One tool Melanie recommends in the podcast episode is the Westminster Catechism for Kids, a resource rooted in scripture, perfect for introducing God’s truth. You’ll find more examples in the podcast episode, including a truth Priscilla Shirer speaks over her children.
The key is consistency. Speak truth over your children regularly, whether it’s at bedtime, before school, or in moments of prayer. It’s not about perfection; it’s about faithfully pointing your children to the One who holds all truth.
Free Valentine’s Day Printable
To help you get started speaking truth over your children, download the free Valentine Affirmations printable. You’ll find instructions to place a heart on your child’s door each day for the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. On each heart, write something special about the child or a truth about them from God’s Word. The printable includes example hearts, along with blank ones to customize. This has become a cherished tradition in our home, and I hope it will bring just as much joy to yours.
