50 Bible Verses About Family

Introduction to 50 Bible Verses About Family

In the rich and varied tapestry of Scripture, the family stands as a central theme, a microcosm of God’s plan and purpose for humanity. This collection of 50 Bible verses about family delves into the heart of these divine teachings, offering an expansive view of the biblical perspective on family life. These Bible verses about family not only explore the sacred bonds of marriage and parenting but also illuminate the broader relational dynamics within a family, including sibling relationships and intergenerational interactions. 

From the foundational verses on marriage, like Genesis 2:24, ‘That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh,’ to the guiding principles of parenting articulated in Proverbs 22:6, ‘Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it,’ these scriptures provide a holistic view of the family. They address the complexities and the beauty of marital relationships, underscoring the importance of love, respect, and commitment as reflected in Ephesians 5:25, ‘Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.’ 

The verses delve deeper into the realm of parenting, offering timeless wisdom on nurturing and guiding children in a manner that fosters respect, discipline, and moral strength. This is vividly captured in verses like Ephesians 6:4, ‘Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.’ Beyond the immediate nuclear family, the scriptures extend to encompass broader family relationships, advocating for harmony, understanding, and compassion amongst all family members. 

Love and kindness, as key tenets of Christian living, are echoed throughout these verses. The depiction of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, as patient, kind, and enduring, serves as a model for family interactions and relationships. Furthermore, the role of God in family life is emphasized as being of paramount importance. Verses like Joshua 24:15, ‘As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord,’ serve as a reminder of the spiritual foundation upon which Christian families are built and the blessings that flow from a life centered around faith. 

This curated compilation of Bible verses provides not just a set of guidelines but a profound insight into the essence of what makes a family strong, resilient, and deeply rooted in love and faith. It is an invaluable resource for individuals and families seeking to navigate the complexities of family life while staying aligned with Christian values and teachings. The verses serve as a compass, guiding believers in creating and maintaining a family life that honors God, nurtures its members, and stands as a testament to the enduring principles of the Scriptures. 

Marriage

Marriage, as presented in biblical teachings, is not merely a social contract but a sacred union ordained by God. These verses in the Bible offer profound insights into the nature and purpose of marriage, highlighting it as a divine institution meant for companionship, love, and mutual support. They emphasize the spiritual bond that marriage represents, likening it to the union between Christ and the Church. In this holy covenant, husbands and wives are called to exhibit unconditional love, respect, and fidelity. The verses guide couples to honor their commitments, demonstrating how a godly marriage can be a source of immense joy, strength, and blessing. This collection of verses is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone seeking to build a marriage that mirrors the love, sacrifice, and devotion that God desires for His children. 

Genesis 2:24

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. NIV

In Other Words: A man shall leave his parents and unite with his wife, becoming one entity. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage unites a man and woman into one. 

Proverbs 18:22

He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. 

In Other Words: Finding a wife means finding something good and receiving God’s favor. 

One-Line Summary: A good wife is a blessing from God. 

Ephesians 5:25

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. 

In Other Words: Husbands, show love to your wives as Christ did for the church, sacrificing himself for her. 

One-Line Summary: Husbands should love their wives sacrificially. 

Proverbs 31:10

A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. 

In Other Words: A virtuous wife is rare and more valuable than the finest jewels. 

One-Line Summary: A virtuous wife is invaluable.

1 Peter 3:7

Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers. 

In Other Words: Husbands should be understanding and respectful to their wives, acknowledging them as partners in God’s grace, so their prayers aren’t hindered. 

One-Line Summary: Husbands should respect and understand their wives. 

Matthew 19:6

So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. 

In Other Words: Once united as one, let no one separate what God has joined together. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage is a permanent union blessed by God. 

Proverbs 19:14

Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord. 

In Other Words: While family inheritance is valuable, a wise wife is a gift from God. 

One-Line Summary: A prudent wife is a divine gift. 

Ecclesiastes 4:9

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. 

In Other Words: Two people together are better off, for they can help each other succeed. 

One-Line Summary: Companionship is beneficial and rewarding. 

Colossians 3:18-19

Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 

In Other Words: Wives should submit to their husbands as appropriate, and husbands should love their wives, never being harsh. 

One-Line Summary: Wives should respect husbands; husbands should love wives. 

Proverbs 12:4

A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones. 

In Other Words: A noble wife is her husband’s joy and crown, but a disgraceful one is like decay in his bones. 

One-Line Summary: A virtuous wife brings honor to her husband.

Parenting

In the Bible, parenting is portrayed as a stewardship role entrusted by God, where parents are called to nurture, protect, and instruct their children in a way that honors Him. These verses provide timeless wisdom on how to raise children with discipline and love, shaping their character and faith. They underscore the importance of instilling moral values, teaching children to respect and obey God’s commandments, and leading by example in the faith. The scriptures emphasize the role of parents not just as caretakers but as spiritual mentors to their children, responsible for guiding them in their spiritual journey and helping them to understand the love of God. This selection of verses is invaluable for parents seeking guidance and strength in one of life’s most important roles, offering principles that contribute to raising godly, respectful, and compassionate individuals. 

Proverbs 22:6

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. NIV

In Other Words: Guide children on the right path, and when they grow old, they will not depart from it. 

One-Line Summary: Teach children right paths for lifelong adherence. 

Ephesians 6:4

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. 

In Other Words: Fathers, don’t irritate your children, but raise them with Christian discipline and teachings. 

One-Line Summary: Fathers should raise children with godly discipline and instruction. 

Proverbs 13:24

Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. 

In Other Words: Refusing to discipline a child is a sign of dislike, but loving them means correcting them as needed. 

One-Line Summary: Loving discipline is essential for child-rearing.

Psalm 127:3-4

Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. 

In Other Words: Children are a blessing from God, like arrows in a warrior’s hand. 

One-Line Summary: Children are blessings from God. 

Deuteronomy 6:7

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. 

In Other Words: Teach your children God’s commands, discussing them in your daily life. 

One-Line Summary: Teach children God’s commands constantly. 

Colossians 3:21

Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. 

In Other Words: Fathers, don’t make your children resentful or they’ll become discouraged. 

One-Line Summary: Fathers should not discourage their children. 

Proverbs 29:17

Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire. 

In Other Words: Correct your children, and they will bring you peace and happiness. 

One-Line Summary: Disciplined children bring peace and delight. 

Psalm 113:9

He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord. 

In Other Words: God gives the childless woman a family, making her a happy mother. 

One-Line Summary: God blesses childless women with families. 

2 Timothy 1:5

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 

In Other Words: Your genuine faith, first living in your grandmother and mother, now dwells in you. 

One-Line Summary: Faith can be passed down through generations. 

Proverbs 17:6

Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. 

In Other Words: Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their parents. 

One-Line Summary: Grandparents and parents are proud of their lineage. 

Family Relationships

The Bible presents family relationships as integral to a well-functioning society and as a reflection of God’s love and order. These verses explore various aspects of familial interactions, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, support, and love among family members. They delve into the sacred duties children owe to their parents, the enduring bonds of sibling relationships, and the overarching call for harmony and peace within the family unit. By highlighting principles such as empathy, forgiveness, and patience, the scriptures offer guidance on resolving conflicts, strengthening bonds, and building a nurturing and supportive family environment. This listing serves as a reminder of the vital role each family member plays in creating a loving and godly home, where every individual is valued and nurtured. 

Ephesians 6:1-2

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise. 

In Other Words: Children, obey your parents as the Lord commands, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’. 

One-Line Summary: Children should obey and honor their parents. 

Proverbs 17:17

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. 

In Other Words: A friend loves at all times, and siblings are there for each other in hard times. 

One-Line Summary: Siblings support each other in hard times. 

Genesis 31:49

May the Lord watch between you and me when we are absent one from another. 

In Other Words: May God keep watch when we’re apart from each other. 

One-Line Summary: God watches over separated family members. 

Proverbs 15:17

Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred. 

In Other Words: A modest meal with love is better than a feast where there is hatred. 

One-Line Summary: Love is more important than material wealth. 

1 Timothy 5:8

Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 

In Other Words: If someone doesn’t provide for their relatives, especially their household, they have denied their faith. 

One-Line Summary: Providing for family is a fundamental Christian duty. 

Proverbs 11:29

Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise. 

In Other Words: Those who bring trouble on their family inherit only the wind. 

One-Line Summary: Trouble within the family leads to loss. 

Genesis 50:20

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 

In Other Words: What you meant for harm, God turned to good, saving many lives. 

One-Line Summary: God transforms intended harm into good. 

Proverbs 15:27

The greedy bring ruin to their household, but the one who hates bribes will live. 

In Other Words: Greedy actions ruin a household, but hating bribes will let you live. 

One-Line Summary: Greed brings ruin to families. 

1 John 4:20

Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 

In Other Words: If someone says they love God but hates their sibling, they are lying. 

One-Line Summary: Loving God requires loving one’s family. 

Exodus 20:12

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. 

In Other Words: Respect your parents so your life may be long in the land given by God. 

One-Line Summary: Honoring parents leads to a blessed life. 

Love and Kindness in Family

In the Christian faith, love and kindness are essential virtues that should permeate family life. These verses provide profound insights into the nature of true love – patient, selfless, forgiving, and enduring. They encourage families to cultivate an environment where love is the guiding principle in every interaction, decision, and relationship. This collection of scriptures teaches that love within a family goes beyond mere affection; it involves acts of kindness, words of encouragement, forgiveness of faults, and a commitment to each other’s well-being. The verses urge family members to emulate the love of Christ, a love that is sacrificial and unconditional. By doing so, families can create a haven of peace, joy, and spiritual growth, where each member feels valued, understood, and supported in their life’s journey. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 

In Other Words: Love is patient and kind, not envious or boastful. It’s not arrogant or rude. Love doesn’t insist on its own way; it’s not irritable or resentful. Love doesn’t rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. 

One-Line Summary: Love’s qualities include patience, kindness, and endurance. 

Colossians 3:13

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 

In Other Words: Tolerate each other and forgive grievances. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 

One-Line Summary: Forgiveness is central to family harmony. 

Proverbs 15:17

Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred. 

In Other Words: A simple meal with love is better than a feast with hatred. 

One-Line Summary: Love is more valuable than lavish meals.

1 John 4:19

We love because he first loved us. 

In Other Words: We love because He first loved us. 

One-Line Summary: Our love stems from God’s love. 

Ephesians 4:2-3

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 

In Other Words: Be humble, gentle, and patient, bearing with one another in love, striving to maintain unity and peace. 

One-Line Summary: Love involves humility, patience, and unity. 

Proverbs 17:9

Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. 

In Other Words: Fostering love means forgiving offenses; repeating them ruins friendships. 

One-Line Summary: Love prioritizes forgiveness over conflict. 

1 Peter 4:8

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 

In Other Words: Most importantly, love each other deeply, as love covers over many sins. 

One-Line Summary: Deep love compensates for many sins. 

1 Corinthians 16:14

Do everything in love. 

In Other Words: Let all that you do be done in love. 

One-Line Summary: Do everything with love. 

Proverbs 10:12

Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs. 

In Other Words: Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers all offenses. 

One-Line Summary: Love resolves conflicts. 

Romans 12:10

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 

In Other Words: Be devoted to each other with brotherly love, honoring others above yourself. 

One-Line Summary: Family should be marked by mutual respect and affection. 

God’s Role in Family

The role of God in family life is a central theme in the Bible, depicting the family unit as not only a social institution but as a spiritual covenant with God. These verses highlight how faith in God and adherence to His commandments can profoundly shape family dynamics, bringing blessings, guidance, and stability. They emphasize the importance of worshiping God as a family, teaching children about His teachings and love, and making the home a place where God’s presence is felt and honored. This listing of verses illustrates how a family rooted in faith can withstand life’s challenges, grow in love, and be a testimony to God’s grace. It serves as a reminder that when families center their lives around God, they can experience His guidance, provision, and protection, creating a legacy of faith that can be passed down through generations. 

Joshua 24:15

But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. 

In Other Words: As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord. 

One-Line Summary: Families should wholeheartedly serve the Lord. 

Psalm 128:1

Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. 

In Other Words: Happy are those who respect the Lord and follow his ways. 

One-Line Summary: Godly living brings family blessings. 

Proverbs 1:8

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. 

In Other Words: Listen to your father’s guidance and don’t ignore your mother’s advice. 

One-Line Summary: Heed parental guidance grounded in God’s teachings. 

Deuteronomy 4:9

Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. 

In Other Words: Be careful to remember what you’ve seen God do, and teach those things to your children and grandchildren. 

One-Line Summary: Teach God’s deeds to future generations. 

Psalm 103:17

But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children. 

In Other Words: God’s love is everlasting for those who fear him, extending to their descendants. 

One-Line Summary: God’s love extends through generations of the faithful. 

Psalm 112:1-2

Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. 

In Other Words: Happy are those who fear the Lord and delight in his commands. Their descendants will be powerful and blessed. 

One-Line Summary: God blesses the righteous and their descendants. 

Proverbs 3:33

The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. 

In Other Words: The Lord curses the house of the wicked but blesses the home of the righteous. 

One-Line Summary: The righteous family is blessed by God. 

Genesis 18:19

For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just, so that the Lord will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him. 

In Other Words: I have chosen him to instruct his children and household in my ways, so I can fulfill my promises to him. 

One-Line Summary: Faithful families are integral to God’s plan. 

3 John 1:4

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 

In Other Words: There’s no greater joy than knowing my children are following the truth. 

One-Line Summary: Children walking in truth bring great joy. 

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

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. 

In Other Words: Keep these commandments in your heart and impress them upon your children in your daily life. 

One-Line Summary: Constantly teach God’s commandments to children. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, this thoughtful compilation of Bible verses about family serves as a profound testament to the importance Scripture places on familial bonds and responsibilities. These Bible verses about family not only guide us in understanding the divine perspective on family life but also provide practical wisdom for nurturing and maintaining these crucial relationships. As we reflect on verses like Colossians 3:13, ‘Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you,’ we are reminded of the grace and forgiveness that should underpin our family interactions. 

Moreover, the Bible teaches us about the strength and support that family can provide, as beautifully expressed in Proverbs 17:17, ‘A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.’ These scriptures encourage us to cherish and uphold the values of love, respect, and mutual support in our family lives. The role of parents is also highlighted in verses like Deuteronomy 6:7, ‘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,’ emphasizing the responsibility to pass on faith and wisdom to the next generation. 

This collection of scriptures offers a rich resource for reflection and guidance, illuminating the path to a fulfilling and God-centered family life. As we integrate these teachings into our daily lives, we not only strengthen our own families but also contribute to a stronger, more compassionate society, rooted in the enduring principles of love, respect, and faithfulness that the Bible so eloquently teaches. Let these Bible verses about family inspire and guide us in our continuous journey of building and nurturing a family life that reflects the love and grace of God. 

6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Family Bible Verses

A Prayer Inspired by Family Bible Verses

As we reflect upon the wisdom of the Bible verses about family, let us come together in prayer, seeking divine guidance and blessings for our families. These scriptures have illuminated the path of love, respect, and godly living within our family units. In this prayer, we aim to embrace these teachings, asking God to infuse our family life with His grace, strength, and love.

Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Family

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the gift of family. Your Word, through scriptures like Ephesians 5:25 and Proverbs 22:6, has shown us the beauty and responsibility of familial bonds. Lord, we ask for Your wisdom to guide us in these sacred relationships.

Bless our marriage, O God, as we strive to embody the unity and love that You have ordained. May our partnership reflect the selfless love of Christ, as we support and honor one another in all that we do. Guide us, Lord, in the footsteps of Proverbs 31:10 and Ephesians 5:25, to nurture a relationship that is strong, respectful, and grounded in Your love.

Grant us, Lord, the grace to parent our children with the wisdom and guidance that comes from You. Help us to raise them in accordance with Your will, teaching them Your ways and Your truth, as instructed in Proverbs 22:6 and Deuteronomy 6:7. May our home be a place of love, discipline, and spiritual growth, where Your teachings are cherished and upheld.

We pray for harmony and understanding within our family, as we navigate the challenges and joys of life. Teach us to forgive, to be patient, and to bear with one another in love, following the example of Colossians 3:13. In times of conflict, may Your spirit of peace and reconciliation prevail in our hearts.

Lord, we also lift up our extended family members – our parents, siblings, and relatives. May our relationships with them be strengthened and enriched by Your love and grace. Help us to honor our parents, support our siblings, and show kindness to our relatives, embodying the virtues of respect and compassion as taught in Exodus 20:12 and Proverbs 17:17.

Above all, Heavenly Father, we dedicate our family to You. May our home be a dwelling place for Your presence, where Your love is felt and Your name is honored. Just as Joshua declared in Joshua 24:15, may our household serve You faithfully, walking in Your ways and seeking Your wisdom in all aspects of our life.

We thank You, Lord, for Your unending love and for the blessings You bestow upon our family. May we always be a testament to Your grace, a beacon of Your love, and a reflection of Your glory.

In Jesus’ name, we pray,

Amen.