“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” Hebrews 3:13.

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22

All human beings, including our children, are products of their environment. How we perceive ourselves, our interactions and decision making are shaped by our experiences and the influence of those around us. The environment and experiences we have growing up have the most impact on how our identity is shaped.

I don’t know about you but I want to create for my kids an environment that encourages them and builds them up in God’s truth and wisdom. When my child looks in the mirror I want them to see a loved child of God, a powerful heir to His kingdom, a strong and courageous person filled with God’s Spirit and promises. When my child is faced with challenges and sin is trying to deceive them I want God’s truth to rise up within them and be the wisdom they use to navigate through life.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11.

How do we create an environment of encouragement?

Encouragement should point our kids to God’s promises and assure them that everything we go through is under His control. Here are some ways that could help you create an environment of encouragement in your home.

Pray with your child

Ask God for a word of encouragement for them, share it with your child and teach them to hear words of encouragement to share with others.

Speak positive words

Over your kids when you get the opportunity, e.g. ‘You are strong and capable, give it another try’, ‘God made you with so many talents and gifts’, ‘I like the way you are so kind to others’, ‘When you helped your brother I could see God’s light shining inside of you’, ‘You are a leader and people listen and follow you’, ‘That was a beautiful prayer, God loves it when you talk to Him’.

Print out encouraging verses/words

Decorate your child’s room. If your child is old enough let them decide which verses create in them a joyful heart.

Write encouraging notes or scripture

On post it notes to put in your kids lunchboxes or stick them to the bathroom mirror.

Read bible stories

With your child, stories that inspire faith and encourage your child’s spirit to grow in the knowledge and truth of who they are in Christ. Let your child ask questions and help them relate the stories to their own lives.

Listen to encouraging music

Play it in the car and around the house, especially if you or your family are feeling down, the joy of the Lord will come if you are singing words that declare His glory and the atmosphere in your home with become one of encouragement.

Strong family foundations are built on God’s Word and His Word is full of encouragement for our families. Below are a few verses to encourage you and your kids.

Bible verses to encourage your kids

• “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.”- Proverbs 28:1
• “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs”- Romans 8:16-17
• “Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other, as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.”- Colossians 3:12-14
• “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus,”- 2 Timothy 2:1
• “…casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”- 1 Peter 5:7
• “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”- Proverbs 3:6
• “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”- Philippians 4:13
• “…fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”- Isaiah 41:10
• “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you."- Deuteronomy 31:6

KATE GRAINGER