What Are Christian Family Values: Definition, Examples, and How to Live It Out

In every generation, Christian families are shaped both by the values they choose to carry and what they choose to let go of. Whether you name them or not, values are always at work in your home. 

Values set the tone. They set the standard. They’re arguably the easiest part to remember (especially for kids) in the triangle of Mission, Vision, and Values. They guide your decisions. And one day, they’ll become part of the inheritance your children will pass on.

So let’s name them. Let’s base them in God’s Word. And let’s talk about what the answer really means of: “What are Christian family values?”

Definition: What Are Christian Family Values?

The dictionary definition of values is: the core beliefs that influence how a person or group lives, decides, and interacts with the world.

So Christian family values would be defined as: “beliefs and/or principles your family builds daily life around, based solely on God’s Word and centered on who Jesus is.” They help guide how you treat each other (and others), make decisions, live day-to-day and ultimately pass on what matters most.

“What are christian family values” doesn’t just answer “what do we believe?”, it answers “how do we live together, and why does it matter?”.

Examples: What Are Christian Family Values?

When you look at Scripture, and when you zoom in to the culture of godly families, there are certain values that rise to the surface again and again. Here are just a few:

1. Love
2. Faithfulness
3. Integrity
4. Grace
5. Joy
6. Peace
7. Kindness
8. Humility
9. Patience
10. Forgiveness
11. Honor
12. Obedience
13. Service
14. Wisdom
15. Stewardship
16. Truth
17. Courage
18. Generosity
19. Reverence
20. Hope

Many of these overlap with the Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), which makes sense, because the Fruit isn’t just for individual growth. It’s for cultivating a Christ-centered family culture.

Additionally, look to add other categories of values once you’ve established your Christian family values. Think about categories like character-driven values, aspirational, or goal-oriented values, and more. Start with faith-based values first and foremost and then go from there!

Walk It Out: What Are Christian Family Values?

We believe values are less about what’s on your wall and more about what’s in your week. Apply these example scenarios and questions into your own personal lives: 

“Family Values” Table Talk

Ask: What do our values look like on a regular night around the dinner table?

This one question will expose what’s real vs. what’s aspirational. For example:

• If honor is a value: do we interrupt each other, or do we listen and wait?
• If joy is a value: do we rush through meals or leave room for conversation, celebration, or laughter?
• If gratitude is a value: are we thanking God for “daily bread” (i.e. the meal you’re about to eat, the provisions in your home, etc.)?

If it’s not visible in your most regular rhythms, it’s not a value yet. That’s not shame — that’s clarity. Let it lead you toward consistency.

“Family Values” Language Bank

Develop a short, common language your kids can grow up hearing and using. Make values practical, memorable, and family-specific.

Examples:

• “That’s not how we show love in this house.”
• “You’re showing real responsibility- I see it.”
• “We always choose to tell the truth, even if it’s hard.”

You’re Not Starting From Scratch

If you’ve ever asked, “What are Christian family values, and how do we build them?”, you’re not behind. You’re beginning.

No matter what your family looks like, or how long your history is, values can be discussed, determined, and set today that change the story for tomorrow.

Remember! When you define your values, you begin to define your legacy. And the best thing you can do for your legacy is to have a plan in place of how to also define it and walk it out daily. Let the Family Legacy Study be that guide for you and your family in discovering your God-given mission, vision and yes, values as a family!