Proverbs 22:6 – Meaning & Devotional
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
What This Verse Means
This proverb encourages intentional spiritual formation of children. 'Train up' includes the idea of dedicating or initiating — giving a child a taste for the right path early in life.
While not an absolute guarantee (proverbs express general principles, not ironclad promises), it teaches that early spiritual investment creates deep roots that persist even through seasons of wandering.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, training children in God's ways was a sacred parental duty (Deuteronomy 6:7). The Hebrew word for 'train' (chanak) was also used for dedicating a new building — suggesting the importance of establishing a strong foundation.
How to Apply This Today
Invest in the spiritual lives of children consistently, not just occasionally. Model faith, teach Scripture, pray with them, and let them see authentic Christianity lived out daily.
Related Verses
Deuteronomy 6:7
"And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house."
Ephesians 6:4
"And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord."
🙏 A Prayer from Proverbs 22:6
Father, give me wisdom to train the children You've placed in my life. Help me plant seeds of faith that will take root and last a lifetime. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Bible Questions
Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.
What Does the Bible Say About Parenting?
The Bible presents parenting as a sacred calling — training children in God's ways through instruction, discipline, love, and consistent example.
Read answerWhat Does the Bible Say About Disciplining Children?
The Bible instructs parents to discipline their children in love, correcting them with wisdom and consistency as God disciplines those He loves.
Read answerWhat Does the Bible Say About Parenting?
The Bible calls parents to raise children with love, instruction, discipline, and faith, modeling godliness and teaching God's Word at every opportunity.
Read answerWhat Is the Book of Proverbs About?
Proverbs is a collection of practical wisdom for daily living, teaching godly decision-making in relationships, work, speech, money, and character.
Read answerWho Was Bildad in the Bible?
Bildad the Shuhite was one of Job's three friends who argued that Job's suffering must be the result of his children's sins or his own, appealing to the wisdom of past generations.
Read answerDeep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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More Devotionals on Parenting
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
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