Is the inner child a biblical concept?

Answer

The term “inner child” has become prevalent in modern culture, leading to a blurring of its meaning. Like other terms, the interpretation of “inner child” varies depending on the context. In explicit psychological discussions, this term holds a different significance compared to its use in informal conversations. While certain aspects of the “inner child” concept find support in the Bible, its more formal psychological interpretations generally do not.

In psychology, the term “inner child” denotes the part of one’s personality that develops in early childhood and persists to some degree throughout life. It can also represent a person’s less mature instincts, emphasizing playfulness, spontaneity, and awe. Some perspectives suggest that negative early experiences can harm this “inner child,” necessitating specific acts of “inner parenting” later on.

Moreover, some individuals use “inner child” to describe the presumed “original” or “innate” version of themselves. This suggests the existence of a “true self” that may be suppressed by life’s demands, adult responsibilities, and various disappointments.

Alternatively, individuals displaying notably immature behavior or thoughts may be described as being influenced by their “inner child.” Those who deviate from the expected adult behavior may exhibit instances of heightened selfishness or pettiness, attributed to the dominance of their “inner child.”

A more informal usage of “inner child” pertains to our inherent yearning for self-expression, carefree relaxation, happiness, awe, and pleasure. Taking a day off work to engage in a fun activity may be described as “setting free my inner child.”

In a general sense, all these concepts share some connection to Scripture, although none are explicitly biblical. Overall, more literal interpretations of the “inner” concept tend to align with religious teachings.Near child” concept is less compatible with the Bible. God’s Word acknowledges the importance of childhood experience and simple joy; however, it does not agree with the idea of a “real you” inherently covered up by life experience. Nor does it teach that we retain some controlling influence of our childhood personality that can overtake us as adults.

Scripture values the ideas of amazement and joy. God, our Heavenly Father, provides His children with experiences that trigger our sense of childlike wonder (Psalm 19:1;Psalm 147:4;Malachi 4:2). It’s often noted that young children never tire of pleasures that adults take for granted. In that sense, God approaches us as a father would approach his children who need guidance «Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And a light unto my path. », (Psalm 119:105) and benefit from his goodness (Luke 11:11-13). Likewise, Scripture praises those who exhibit childlike faith (Matthew 18:2-3), in contrast to cynicism or stubbornness (John 5:39-40). One could say that, when we follow His will, joy in His presence, and trust Him without reservation, God appreciates our “inner child.”

The Bible teaches the importance of properly nurturing and teaching children. That includes parenting them appropriately «Train up a child in the way he should go: And when he is old, he will not depart from it. », (Proverbs 22:6), avoiding mistreatment «And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. », (Ephesians 6:4), and defending their innocence (Proverbs 6:16-19). The long-term effects of poor parenting or childhood abuse are cautioned against in Scripture (Luke 17:2; Colossians 3:21). In this way, the Bible instructs us to avoid those things that negatively impact a child’s future.

At the same time, the Bible does not support the notion that there is a “true self” being somehow concealed by life’s challenges. On the contrary, Scripture reminds us that all individuals are born with a sinful nature (Romans 8:3; Colossians 3:5). Many of the adverse experiences in our lives stem from our own decisions or the sinful choices of others (Hebrews 2:1-4; Proverbs 9:12). When we act selfishly, greedily, irrationally, or recklessly (Galatians 5:19-21), we are not being influenced by some damaged version of our “inner child.” Instead, we are displaying our inherent sinfulness. The remedy for these issues is not self-focused inner child rearing, but rather a redemptive relationship with Christ (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

When people refer to the inner child in discussions about happiness, simple joys, or fulfillment, it can align with a biblical perspective of humanity. However, substituting related concepts for the biblical principles of sin, redemption, responsibility, or sanctity is not consistent with Scripture.