Raising Kids with a Vision Bigger Than Themselves

As parents, one of the greatest responsibilities we carry is shaping how our children see the world. Every day, we are training them—whether we realize it or not—about what matters, what lasts, and what their lives should be aimed toward. If we don’t give our kids a vision that is big enough to match the resources and opportunities God has entrusted to them, the world will gladly hand them a smaller, self-centered one.

In Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30), the servants were given resources with the expectation that they would use them wisely and multiply them. The same is true for our children. They have been given incredible gifts: their minds, their personalities, their creativity, and yes—even the technology and tools of this age. These things are not meant to be wasted on comfort or entertainment alone. Instead, they are entrusted to them (and to us, as parents) so that they might be used for eternal impact.

Producers, Not Consumers

One of the most practical ways we can help our children live out this vision is by training them to be producers instead of consumers. A consumer mindset asks, “What can I get?” while a producer mindset asks, “What can I give?” When our kids believe the world revolves around their personal pleasure, they quickly fall into patterns of entitlement and dissatisfaction. But when they learn that their skills, energy, and creativity are given to them for the good of others, their lives take on meaning and joy that consumption could never provide.

This doesn’t mean our children will never enjoy good gifts—God Himself provides richly for our enjoyment (1 Timothy 6:17). But even our enjoyment of good things is designed to point us back to the Giver and to equip us for service. Training our kids to shift their mindset from taking to giving prepares them to walk faithfully in a culture that constantly glorifies self.

Lasting Joy Comes Through Serving

Ultimately, true and lasting joy isn’t found in chasing self-pleasure—it is found in faithful obedience to God and in serving others. Our children’s talents, time, and tools are all opportunities to glorify Christ, love their neighbors, and spread truth in a world that desperately needs it. The joy that comes from hoarding comfort is fleeting, but the joy that comes from living with purpose and vision will echo into eternity.

So, what vision are you giving your children?

Here are a few practical ways to start shaping that vision at home:

• Point them to Scripture as the foundation for life. God’s Word gives clarity, direction, and hope far beyond what this world offers.

• Talk often about how their gifts can serve others. Help them see their talents as tools for blessing, not just for fun.

• Model a producer mindset in your own habits. Let them see you creating, giving, and serving with gladness.

• Celebrate effort and faithfulness, not just outcomes. Success isn’t measured only by results but by obedience and diligence.

• Keep eternity in view when setting goals and priorities. Remind your children (and yourself) that we are living for more than just today.

As parents, we have the privilege of helping our children see that their lives are part of God’s great story. Let’s give them a vision worthy of the talents they’ve been given—one that calls them out of self-centered living and into joyful service for the glory of God.