Parenting Points
February often centers on hearts, cards, and expressions of affection, but as followers of Jesus, we have a deeper story of love to share. Christlike love goes beyond feelings or words; it is active, sacrificial, and compassionate. Teaching children what this kind of love looks like helps shape their character and allows them to live their faith before others.
Jesus modeled love through action. He served the poor, welcomed the outcast, forgave freely, and, ultimately, gave His life for our sake. In John 13:35, Jesus tells His disciples, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (ESV). For children, understanding this love begins not with grand gestures, but with daily examples they can see and do.
Parents are a child’s first and most influential teachers of Christlike love. When children observe kindness, patience, forgiveness, and generosity at home, they begin to understand what love truly means. Simple acts, like speaking gently during conflict, helping a neighbor, or choosing grace over anger, communicate powerful lessons. These moments show children that love is a choice we make, even when it’s difficult. Teaching love also means helping children put love into action themselves. Encourage your kids to notice others’ needs: a classmate who feels left out, a sibling who needs help, or a neighbor who could use a word of encouragement. Writing cards, sharing toys, helping with chores, or praying for others are tangible ways children can live out their faith. When love becomes something they do, not just something they talk about, faith becomes real and meaningful. Conversations rooted in Scripture can also deepen these lessons. Reading passages like 1 Corinthians 13 or the parable of the Good Samaritan helps children connect Biblical truth to real-life situations. You can ask simple questions such as, “What does loving like Jesus look like at school?” or “How can we show love when someone is unkind?” These discussions help children reflect and grow.
Most importantly, remind children that Christlike love flows from Jesus’ love for us. “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19 ESV). As families rely on God’s grace and see their expressions of love as an overflow of His perfect love, they find strength to love beyond convenience or comfort. This February, may we move beyond words and symbols and embrace love in action by raising children who reflect the heart of Christ through kindness, compassion, and faith lived out daily.
-Dr. Ben Birdsong
Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries
