Raising Kids with a Servant’s Heart: Teaching Children to Love and Serve Like Jesus in a Self-Centered World

We live in a world that constantly promotes self—self-expression, self-promotion, self-gratification. From social media to advertising, kids are bombarded with messages telling them to chase personal success, popularity, and comfort. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to live differently. We’re called to serve.

Jesus didn’t come to be served, but to serve—and to give His life for others (Mark 10:45). Raising children with a servant’s heart means helping them value others above themselves, love sacrificially, and reflect the heart of Jesus in a culture that often encourages the opposite.

Why a Servant’s Heart Matters

A servant’s heart isn’t about weakness or passivity—it’s about strength rooted in humility and love. When we teach children to serve:

• They become more like Christ.

• They grow in empathy and compassion.

• They develop gratitude and perspective.

• They learn that life is bigger than themselves.

These lessons will shape not only who they are, but how they impact the world around them.

How to Raise Kids with a Servant’s Heart

1. Model Servanthood in Everyday Life

Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. Let them see you serve others—with joy, not resentment. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, cooking for someone in need, or showing kindness in small ways, model a lifestyle of service.

2. Teach What the Bible Says About Serving

Scripture is full of examples and commands to serve. Share stories like Jesus washing His disciples’ feet (John 13), the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), or the early church caring for one another (Acts 2). Talk about how greatness in God’s kingdom comes through serving others.

3. Give Them Opportunities to Serve

Serving doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few age-appropriate ideas:

• Young children: Help set the table, make cards for the sick, or pick up toys without being asked.

• Older children: Volunteer at church, help at a food bank, assist a sibling with homework, or visit the elderly.

  
  

  Let service be part of their regular rhythm, not a one-time act.

4. Celebrate Serving, Not Just Achievements

It’s easy to praise grades, goals, and awards—but also celebrate acts of kindness and moments of selflessness. Highlight the joy that comes from giving rather than receiving.

5. Connect Serving to Loving God and Others

Help kids understand that we serve not to earn approval, but because we love God. Serving others is a tangible way to love Him and fulfill the two greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37–39).

6. Encourage a Thankful, Not Entitled, Attitude

Combat entitlement by cultivating gratitude. Talk about blessings, give thanks often, and remind children that everything they have is a gift from God, not something they’re owed.

7. Pray for a Servant’s Heart Together

Make it a habit to pray with your children, asking God to give them soft hearts, willing hands, and eyes to see the needs of others. Prayer keeps our focus aligned with God’s heart.

Overcoming Cultural Resistance

Raising kids to serve in a self-focused world won’t always be easy. There will be resistance—both from within and from outside influences. That’s why it’s important to be intentional and consistent. As parents and leaders, we’re not just raising good citizens—we’re discipling the next generation of Christ-followers.

The Reward of Raising Servants

When children learn to live for others, they experience deeper joy, stronger character, and a faith that impacts lives. They’re prepared to lead with humility, to love the overlooked, and to walk in the footsteps of their Savior.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

Final Thoughts

In a world that says, “Look out for yourself,” we must teach our children to say, “How can I serve?” By raising kids with a servant’s heart, we’re preparing them not just to succeed, but to shine—for God’s glory and the good of others.