“Don’t copy the behavior or customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 (NLT)

We’ve been digging into Romans 12:2 the past few months, looking at what it means to raise kids who are IN, not OF this world in which we live. We’ve determined that above all else, raising kids who are set apart starts with their relationship with Jesus. Then once they surrender their lives to him, they can allow God to change the way they think.

Because our actions and attitudes begin with our thoughts, what comes out of our mouths and in our behavior originates in our minds.

A child’s most powerful thoughts are those related to their identity. Confidence is the foundation on which kids build their character and future. What children believe about themselves affects the thoughts that fill their minds and therefore, their attitudes and actions toward others.

Children are naturally born with varying degrees of confidence. Then characteristics, experiences, and circumstances either add to their self-assurance or take away from it. We can’t always control the outside influences that our kids encounter but we can make sure their foundation is built on solid truth about who they are and to whom they belong. Knowing who we are in Christ allows us to be in the world but not conform to its cultural norms.

As you prepare to send your kids back to school this year, spend some time cultivating their self-worth. Share the following identity statements and scriptures with your children. Memorize them together as a family. If you want your kids to be a light in this dark world, fill them with the truth about their position in Christ that will give them the confidence to shine.

We’ve even created a printable you can use to encourage your kids every day! Download it here and cut out the truth cards to use as lunchbox notes or tape them to your kids’ mirror so they see the truth every morning before school.

Download Your Back-to-School Truths for Kids Printable

20 Back-to-School Truths to Help Kids Know God Loves Them

1. I am a Child of God.

1 John 3:1

2. I am Created in His Image.

Genesis 1:27

3. I am Loved.

Jeremiah 31:3

4. I am Made New by His Grace.

2 Corinthians 5:17

5. I am Known.

Jeremiah 1:5

6. I am Wonderfully Made.

Psalm 139:14

7. I am Chosen.

1 Peter 2:9

8. I am God’s Masterpiece.

Ephesians 2:10

9. I am Confident.

Philippians 1:6

10. I am a Friend of God.

John 15:15

11. I have a Secure Future.

Jeremiah 29:11

 12. I am Able.

Philippians 4:13

13. I am Strong and Unafraid.

2 Timothy 1:7

14. I am Victorious.

Romans 8:37

15. I Know the Truth.

John 14:26

16. I am Untouchable.

Hebrews 13:6

17. I have Peace, not Anxiety.

Philippians 4:6-7

18. I am Never Alone.

Deuteronomy 31:6

19. I am a Light.

Matthew 5:14-16

20. I am Enough.

Colossians 2:10

What truths and verses are you teaching your children about their identity in Christ?