When I was a kid, the idea of step-parents seemed strange. My parents were happily married, so I didn’t know any different. As I grew up, I came to realize step-families are incredibly common. According to surveys, over 50% of Americans will be in a step-family eventually.
The Bible says much about step-parenting, even though the word ‘step-parent’ isn’t used. The Bible focuses on honouring your biological or not parents and keeping the family unit strong. Here are a few of the major principles:
Honour Your Father and Mother
In Exodus 20:12, God commands us to “Honor your father and your mother.” Notice it doesn’t say ‘biological father and mother.’ All parental figures in a child’s life deserve honour and respect. Step-parents sacrifice and care for children, so they should receive the same honour as biological parents.
Provide and Care For Your Household
1 Timothy 5:8 says, “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” This applies to step-parents as well. Step-parents are responsible for providing for and caring for stepchildren, ensuring their basic needs are met.
Love One Another Deeply
The Bible calls us to love one another deeply, with compassion and patience. This applies within a step-family. Colossians 3:12-14 says, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
Step-parents and stepchildren will face unique challenges, but focusing on honour, care, and love will strengthen the family bond. God’s principles for healthy relationships apply to all families, regardless of origin. With work and commitment to these principles, a step-family can thrive.
I’m Mithun Debnath, a dedicated dad and the founder of Papa Parenting. I’m here to share my parenting journey, tips, and insights to make your life as a parent a little easier. Join me as we navigate the adventures of fatherhood together.