How Do a Child’s Actions Reveal Their True Character?

Proverbs 20:11 states, “Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright?” This verse offers profound wisdom regarding the discernment of character, emphasizing that behavior is a reliable indicator of a person’s heart, even from an early age. Though children are often viewed as innocent and naive, the inspired writer of Proverbs reminds us that one’s actions—regardless of age—reveal underlying character, intentions, and tendencies. This verse underscores the importance of recognizing moral responsibility from youth and the necessity of instilling godly virtues early in life.

The verse begins, “Even small children are known by their actions.” The Hebrew phrase “small children” (naʿar) typically refers to a young boy or youth, but it can also encompass children and adolescents of varying ages. This term emphasizes that even those who are still in their formative years display patterns of behavior that reflect their moral and spiritual condition. While a child’s understanding may be limited, their actions still reveal the direction of their heart.

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The phrase “are known by their actions” highlights the observable nature of a person’s character. The Hebrew word for “known” (nākar) carries the idea of being recognized, discerned, or distinguished. Just as a tree is known by its fruit (Matthew 7:16), a child’s actions provide insight into their developing character. Children may not possess the maturity of adults, but their behavior—whether marked by obedience or defiance, kindness or selfishness—reveals much about their moral trajectory. Proverbs 15:11 reinforces this principle: “Death and Destruction lie open before Jehovah—how much more do human hearts!” Jehovah sees the heart clearly, but even fellow humans can discern tendencies based on consistent behavior.

The latter half of the verse asks, “so is their conduct really pure and upright?” This rhetorical question challenges the reader to consider whether a child’s actions genuinely reflect purity and righteousness. The term “pure” (zak) suggests innocence, cleanness, and moral integrity. “Upright” (yāshār) denotes straightness, correctness, and alignment with God’s moral standards. Together, these qualities form the basis of a life that honors Jehovah. But the question implies that not all outwardly good behavior is rooted in genuine purity and righteousness. Children, like adults, can sometimes act out of selfish motives, desire for approval, or even deceit. The real test of character is not merely outward conformity but inward purity that leads to consistent righteousness.

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This verse affirms that moral discernment and accountability begin early. While children may lack the cognitive maturity to fully comprehend complex moral issues, they are not exempt from moral responsibility. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 commands, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.” This instruction highlights that moral training begins in childhood and that parents are tasked with shaping not only behavior but the heart that motivates that behavior.

The principle that actions reveal character is repeated throughout Scripture. Jesus declared in Matthew 7:17, “Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.” Just as fruit naturally reflects the health of the tree, actions reflect the moral condition of the heart. Children may not yet understand the deeper theological truths of righteousness and purity, but their conduct—how they respond to instruction, how they treat others, and how they react in various situations—offers a glimpse into the condition of their hearts.

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Furthermore, this verse emphasizes the importance of early moral training. Proverbs 22:6 exhorts, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” The early years are formative, and habits developed during childhood often carry into adulthood. Left unchecked, selfishness, deceit, or rebellion can harden into lifelong patterns. Conversely, a child who is taught to fear Jehovah, respect authority, and pursue righteousness is far more likely to develop habits of godliness and moral integrity.

Additionally, the consistency of a child’s behavior serves as an indicator of parental diligence and instruction. Proverbs 29:15 warns, “The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother.” While each child ultimately makes their own choices, parents have the responsibility to guide, correct, and shape their children’s moral compass. Neglecting this duty can result in children whose actions reveal a lack of discipline and spiritual grounding.

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This proverb also highlights the danger of ignoring early signs of moral deviation. Some may excuse a child’s disobedience, deceit, or disrespect as “just a phase,” but unchecked behavior often reveals deeper heart issues. Proverbs 19:18 warns, “Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.” Ignoring or excusing sinful tendencies can lead to spiritual ruin, while early correction paves the way for lasting righteousness.

Ultimately, Proverbs 20:11 underscores that even children display their character through their actions, and this serves as an early indicator of whether their conduct is truly pure and upright. This truth calls parents, teachers, and all who influence children to be vigilant in instruction, correction, and nurturing godly character. It also serves as a reminder that genuine righteousness is not merely external but springs from a heart that seeks to honor Jehovah. The task of shaping a child’s heart is not easy, but it is essential—for what is sown in youth will bear fruit in adulthood.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).