Raising Boys to Become Godly Men

Raising boys is an adventure filled with noise, energy, and a lot of unexpected wisdom. We’re not just preparing them for adulthood, though—we’re also preparing them for the spiritual battles they’ll face. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” That means raising boys is about equipping them for more than just life—it’s about raising godly men who are warriors of faith.

Raising Boys to Become Godly Men

My son said something recently that really hit home. While discussing spiritual warfare on Christians today and the season we are in, he said to me,  “I fear God, not the devil”. So profound. As a mom, moments like that make all the effort worth it. We want to raise boys who aren’t afraid to stand strong in their faith and face the world with courage. Here’s how we can help them grow into godly men.

Easy-to-Follow (and Totally Relatable) Tips

1. Let Them Pick the Music (Even If It’s Not Your Style)

There’s a lot of awesome Christian rap out there, and I love hearing what my son picks. These days, our drives together involve windows down, music blasting, and just talking about life. Whether it’s a trip to the store or something bigger, these moments matter. They might seem small, but it’s these little mom/son times that build trust and connection. And hey, you might even end up enjoying the music!

2. Encourage Mom/Son Dates (Even for Errands)

When my husband or family takes my younger child, I grab those moments for some quality time with my son. Even something as simple as running errands turns into special bonding time. We talk about his day, his dreams, or just whatever’s on his mind. These dates remind him that I’m here for him—no matter what.

3. Support Time with Dad for ‘Masculine’ Stuff (Even When It’s Hard)

I won’t lie—it’s hard to let him go hunting with dad. But I know how important it is for his development. Spending time with his father, learning skills like hunting or other “masculine” activities, helps him grow into the protector and provider he’ll need to be for his future family. As moms, it can be tough to let them go, but it’s so crucial for their growth.

4. Let Them Wrestle (and Play Contact Sports)

Boys need to test their strength—it’s just part of who they are. Contact sports, wrestling with siblings, or just climbing everything in sight—it’s all part of how they learn discipline, confidence, and resilience. Let them get their energy out in positive ways, because if not, your couch is going to take the brunt of it!

5. Teach Them Household Tasks (Future Husbands Need These Skills)

It might feel like pulling teeth, but teaching boys to cook, clean, and do laundry is preparing them for life. These skills are going to be vital when they’re future husbands and dads. Plus, they’ll appreciate being self-sufficient later on. And hey, maybe one day, they’ll surprise you with dinner!

6. Equip Them for Spiritual Battles

The world is going to challenge our boys, and it’s our job to make sure they’re spiritually prepared. Teach them about the armor of God from Ephesians 6:13-17, so they understand how to stand firm in faith when the pressure is on. They need to know that real strength comes from their relationship with God, not just from physical power.

7. Lean In During the Middle School Years

Let’s be honest—nothing truly prepares you for the middle school years. Hormones, strong body spray, and mood swings are in full force, but these are the moments when our boys need us most. Don’t pull away, even when they push you back. Keep leaning in, being present, and showing them you’re there for them no matter what. It’s tough, but it’s worth it.

Raising Boys Who Fear the Lord

At the end of the day, we’re raising boys to be godly men—men who love deeply, stand firm in their faith, and embrace both the challenges and joys of life. Whether it’s letting them go hunting with dad or jamming out to their music, we’re shaping their character every step of the way.

Ephesians 6:10-11 tells us, “Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” Let’s raise boys who stand strong in their faith and become the godly men this world desperately needs. And in the meantime, we’ll survive the middle school years together—body spray, music, and all!