The Lifelong Lesson of Greatness: Training Children in Honor and Humility

This verse reminds us of the profound responsibility we hold in shaping the next generation—not only in practical skills or academic knowledge but in their character, values, and worldview.

One of the most essential lessons every child must grasp early in life is the reality of greatness. Greatness is woven into the very fabric of human existence. As long as we walk this earth, there will always be a dynamic of hierarchy: there will always be someone greater than us, and we, in turn, will be greater than someone else. How we navigate these positions of being “greater” or “lesser” defines the core of who we are.

It is vital to instill in children the understanding that greatness is not random or purely the result of human effort—it is often God’s design and purpose. Throughout Scripture, we see God lifting one person, anointing another, and calling individuals into positions of leadership, influence, and service. When children comprehend that God is sovereign in these matters, they are less likely to fall into the traps of pride when elevated or envy when others rise above them.

This perspective equips them to recognize that positions of power and honor are divine assignments, not personal achievements alone. Whether a child grows up to become a leader in their field, a voice of influence in their community, or someone serving quietly behind the scenes, they must see greatness through God’s eyes.

Teaching Respect and Honor

One of the earliest and most transformative principles children can learn is respect for those greater than themselves. This is not about blind submission or fear-driven obedience but about honoring the wisdom, experience, and authority that others carry.

Teach your children to celebrate the success of others. Let them see that greatness in others is not a threat but an opportunity to learn and grow. Show them how to receive wisdom with humility and to express gratitude when they are blessed by someone else’s insight or leadership. This shapes a heart posture that welcomes growth and resists bitterness or jealousy.

Crucially, let your children observe your own attitude toward authority. When they see you respecting leaders, acknowledging God’s anointing in others, and submitting with grace and integrity, they internalize these values far more deeply than words alone could achieve.

Power as Responsibility

On the other side of the coin, we must teach children how to handle power and greatness when it comes to them. It is not a matter of if but when. Whether in small ways or significant ones, every child will encounter moments when they are in a position of influence over others.

In those moments, humility is the key. Power is not a privilege to exploit but a sacred responsibility. Point them to Christ—the ultimate model. Jesus, though the greatest of all, took on the form of a servant. As Matthew 20:26-28 teaches us, true greatness in God’s kingdom is found in serving others.

Children need to understand that leadership and greatness are not about elevating oneself but about lifting others. It’s about using every position of influence to reflect the love, justice, and mercy of God.

Living the Lesson

Ultimately, the most impactful lessons are not taught by words alone but by example. How you personally respond to those in authority over you—and how you conduct yourself toward those under your care—will shape your child’s understanding of greatness more than any lecture or rule ever could.

When you admire others with sincerity and humility, your children learn admiration. When you handle power with grace and compassion, your children learn true leadership. Your life becomes the blueprint for the kind of greatness God calls us all to embody.

A Prayer for Wisdom

Let us pray this prayer of dedication and wisdom:

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of children. By divine wisdom, I train them in Your ways, to understand greatness through Your eyes. I teach them to honor those above them, walk humbly with those beneath them, and always seek Your face rather than worldly status. Let my life always be a reflection of the wisdom I want them to carry. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

A Golden Nugget of Truth

Greatness is a part of life. As long as the earth remains, there will always be someone greater than us, and we will always be greater than someone else. How we respond to both positions shapes our character. This is a lesson every child must learn early.