The first warm spring day found us attracted to the park like bees to flowers. The warm air, fresh green grass and setting sun made the park too irresistible. As a family, we ran through the park, tossing a football around. 

“Catch it, catch it, Elijah,” I hollered as the football zoomed through the air from his Daddy’s hands. He caught the ball and hugged it his body, no sooner than he could say touch down, his big sis tackled him.

This erupted into howls as Elijah kicked his sister. SIGH… In goes mom (me) trying to find something wise and Biblical to say. 

“Elijah, why did you kick your sister? She was just rough housing with you.”

“I know, but I couldn’t help it.”

“Were you being a good sport or being out of control?” 

“I wasn’t practicing self-control.” 

“Both of you should try a little harder and be good sports about playing together I responded.”

Mothering with Scripture 

“When we get home, we’re going to see what the Bible says about self-control, Buddy,” I replied trying to be the wise-but-cool mom. Later that evening I found dozens of Scriptures about self control. And the thought hit me, why can’t we memorize scriptures as a family on areas we all need help like self control and compassion? Why can’t I take everyday moments and make the Bible come to life for my kids? 

As a light went off in my mind, more thoughts flooded my heart. 

Is it just me or have we has moms become a little too complacent in taking Biblical leadership at home? The thought hit me that I had relied too much on Sunday School and my son’s Christian school to teach Godly principals. 

With a marker and post it notes, I copied out key verses and posted them all over the house, including one in the kids’ bedrooms, the bathroom mirror, by the dinning room table, in the cars, and on the fridge–I even posted them onto the front of our TV.

What I found over time are Scriptures that are so foundational, they applied to several areas, I also noted certain issues were becoming less and my kids began quoting Scripture to each other. The foundational truths were being laid in their hearts! 

If you’re looking for a good place to start with your kids, these 20 Verses are the perfect place to start. And even better, I made a printable version below, so you can print them out and post them all over your house. 

20 Scripture Foundational Verses for every Family.

1. I can do everything in Christ who gives me strength. — Philippians 4:13
2. And do not forget to do good and to share with others. –Hebrews 13:16
3. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is God. His love endures forever. — Psalm 118:1
4. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as Christ Jesus forgave you. –Ephesians 4:32
5. All things were made by him. — John 1:3
6. Finally be strong in the Lord and his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the devil’s schemes. –Ephesians 6:10-11
7. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. –Romans 10:13
8. Set your mind on things above, not earthly things. –Colossians 3:2
9. Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path. –Psalm 119:105
10. I am with you always. –Matthew 28:20 
11. Anyone who knows the good he ought to do but doesn’t do it, sins. –James 4:17
12. Encourage one another build each other up. –1 Thessalonians 5:11
13. Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies. –Psalm 34:14
14. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. –Matthew 22:37
15. A cheerful heart is good medicine. — Proverbs 17:22
16. Do everything without complaining or arguing. –Philippians 2:14
17. Do to others as you would have them to do you. Luke 6:31
18. When I am afraid, I will trust in you. –Psalm 56:3
19. A friend loves at all times. –Proverbs 17:17
20. Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. –Ephesians 6:1

Click here for your printable verses for your kids: owl scripture cards for kids

Click here for a printable page to hang on your wall: 20 Foundational Verses for Families to Memorize