Putting Children First: Defending the Rights of Future Generations

It’s easy to say we care about children, but do our actions truly reflect it? In a world where adult-centered decisions often take precedence, Christians are called to shift the narrative and advocate for a pro-child agenda. This means putting their needs and rights first—no matter the cost.

On my recent podcast episode with Josh Wood, Executive Director of Them Before Us, we discussed why prioritising children isn’t just a nice idea but a moral responsibility rooted in Scripture. Josh challenged us to see the cultural, relational, and policy decisions through the eyes of the most vulnerable among us: children. In this post, we’ll unpack those insights and consider how women, men, and the Church can stand up boldly for the next generation.

What Does It Mean to Put Children First?

The concept of "putting children first" is about making decisions with their well-being as the central priority. As Josh Wood from Them Before Us so eloquently explains, the pro-child agenda challenges adults to take responsibility for how their choices affect kids.

Biblically, we see God’s deep concern for children throughout Scripture. Jesus Himself said, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God" (Mark 10:14, ESV). This shows us that children are not an afterthought in the kingdom of God—they are central to it.

When we put children first, we follow God’s heart for justice and compassion. This isn’t just a theoretical idea; it’s practical. From family structures to public policies, prioritizing children means asking, How will this decision affect the most vulnerable?

Why We Need a Pro-Child Agenda

A pro-child agenda directly counters today’s culture of self-interest, where adult desires often come at the expense of children’s needs. Consider the rising identity crises in young people or the impact of family breakdown. These issues aren’t random—they’re symptoms of a society that has prioritized adult fulfillment over children’s stability.

Josh explains that children thrive when raised in environments that honor God’s design: with the love and care of a mother and father. When that design is disrupted—whether through divorce, reproductive technologies, or casual relationships—children are often left to bear the burden.

Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to, "Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously; defend the rights of the poor and needy" (ESV). If ever there was a group in need of our advocacy, it’s children. They rely on us to be their voice and shield against the forces that harm their development and future.

Key Areas to Put Children First

1. Family Structure and Stability

Family is God’s design for raising children, but today, many kids grow up in fractured homes. Adults need to take responsibility for decisions like marriage, divorce, and parenting, keeping children’s needs at the forefront. Research shows that kids thrive best with the love of their biological mom and dad—a reflection of God’s plan for families.

2. Education

Education isn’t just about academics; it’s about shaping hearts and minds. Parents should advocate for curricula that reflect biblical values and protect children from harmful ideologies. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it" (ESV). Equipping children with truth is one of the most loving things we can do.

3. Media and Technology

In a digital age, children are bombarded with messages that erode their identity and values. Parents and guardians must be gatekeepers, monitoring what enters their homes and setting boundaries. Philippians 4:8 reminds us to dwell on what is true, honorable, and pure—this applies to the content we expose our kids to.

4. Policy and Advocacy

Public policies often prioritize adult rights over children’s needs, whether it’s in family law, reproductive technologies, or education systems. As Christians, we can engage in advocacy by voting, speaking out, and supporting organizations like Them Before Us that champion children’s rights.

The Role of Men and Women in Defending Children

In our podcast episode, Katy Faust emphasized the need for courageous men and women to defend children boldly. Men are called to be protectors, standing in the gap for the vulnerable. Women are called to nurture and use their voices to advocate for truth and justice.

The Bible offers countless examples of men and women standing up for the vulnerable—like Esther, who risked her life to save her people (Esther 4:14), and Boaz, who showed kindness and protection to Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 2:11-12). Likewise, today’s men and women are uniquely positioned to champion children’s rights in their homes, churches, and communities.

Why Defending Children Takes Courage

Advocating for a pro-child agenda is not always popular. It means swimming upstream against cultural norms, often at the expense of personal comfort. But as Galatians 6:9 encourages us, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up" (ESV).

Defending children isn’t just about protecting them from harm; it’s about creating a culture where their needs are prioritized and their futures are secured. This takes boldness, prayer, and a willingness to act, even when it’s inconvenient.

Listen to the Full Podcast Episode

Want to dive deeper into these topics? In my recent podcast episode with Josh Wood of Them Before Us, we explore what it means to truly put “Them Before Us.” We discuss the challenges of advocating for future generations and offer practical steps to create a culture that prioritizes children’s rights. Listen here now!

Practical Steps to Put Children First

• Pray for wisdom and discernment as you make decisions that impact children in your life and community.

• Model Christlike love in your own family, showing kids what it means to live according to God’s design.

• Support organizations like Them Before Us that are actively working to defend children’s rights.

• Educate yourself and others on policies that affect children and be an informed advocate.

• Speak up in your churches and communities, encouraging others to embrace a pro-child agenda.

Putting children first isn’t just a moral obligation; it’s a biblical mandate. As Christians, we have the privilege and responsibility to advocate for the most vulnerable among us, echoing God’s heart for justice and compassion.

When we prioritize children in our decisions, whether in our homes, churches, or communities, we reflect the selfless love of Christ. Let’s commit to standing up for the next generation, not just in words but in action.

Want to hear more? Don’t miss my podcast episode with Them Before Us—it’s a conversation that will challenge and inspire you to make children’s rights a priority.