30+ Bible verses for Protection & Safety of your Child (Son or Daughter)

Do you ever worry about your child’s safety in today’s complex world?

You’re not alone; many parents share this concern.

Thankfully, the Bible offers guidance and comfort to help protect and keep your children secure.

In this article, we’ll explore potent Bible verses for your child’s protection and safety, offering hope and reassurance.

Discover divine wisdom that creates a strong foundation for your child’s emotional and spiritual growth.

We’ll examine scriptures that teach us to cherish and safeguard our precious gifts from God.

So, what can you gain from these verses?

A deeper connection with the Lord and renewed peace, knowing your children are under His watchful care.

Do you believe God’s word can provide comfort and protection for your family?

Join us as we delve into the powerful impact of Bible verses for your child’s protection and safety.

As Psalm 91:11 reminds us, “For He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.”

Trust that the Lord watches over your children, guiding and shielding them at every turn.

Continue reading to uncover divine wisdom found in these Bible verses for your child’s protection and safety.

Let’s embark on a journey to strengthen our faith and reveal God’s unwavering love for our children together.

Bible verses for the protection of your child

Psalm 91:11

For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways

Psalm 91:11 offers a heartwarming message of divine protection for our little ones. “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

This verse emphasizes the role of angelic guardians in protecting our children. It showcases how God’s love and faithfulness provide a robust shield to ensure their safety.

The comforting aspect of Psalm 91:11 is the assurance that God sends angels to watch over our kids. According to Psalm 34:7, these celestial beings “encamp around those who fear him, and he delivers them.”

Hebrews 1:14 also describes angels as “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.” These passages remind us that angelic protection is a tangible expression of God’s love for His children.

Parents need to place their trust in God for their children’s protection. A biblical example is Daniel in the lion’s den (Daniel 6).

Despite being thrown into a den filled with hungry lions, Daniel’s faith in God kept him safe. The Lord sent an angel to shut the mouths of the lions, and Daniel emerged unharmed.

This story demonstrates that God’s protection transcends human understanding and can overcome even the most perilous situations.

Encouraging parents to pray for angelic protection is vital for nurturing faith and fostering a sense of security. The Lord protected Daniel in the lion’s den and continues to watch over our children today.

Teaching our kids about God’s love and care helps them understand that they are never alone. They can rely on His divine protection.

In conclusion, Psalm 91:11 reminds us of God’s promise of angelic protection for our children. Trusting in Him and teaching our little ones about His love provides a strong foundation of faith.

Parents should pray for angelic guardians to protect their children and consistently remind them of God’s unyielding love and care.

Matthew 18:10

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.

Protecting and caring for children is more crucial than ever. The Bible, a beacon of guidance, emphasizes children’s importance in God’s kingdom.

This verse shows that God cherishes children and provides them with guardian angels as evidence of His care.

The story of Jesus blessing the little children highlights God’s deep love for them. In this account, people brought their children to Jesus for prayers and blessings.

The disciples tried to stop them, thinking Jesus was too busy.

But Jesus corrected them. He emphasized the importance of welcoming children, stating that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those with childlike innocence and faith (Matthew 19:14).

Guardian angels offer comfort and reassurance to parents. These heavenly beings not only serve as messengers but also protect God’s children.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:10 suggest that each child has a guardian angel with direct access to God. This idea brings solace to parents, knowing a divine protector watches over their little ones day and night.

The parable of the lost sheep reveals God’s immense love for each person, including children.

Jesus compares God’s joy when a lost sinner repents to a shepherd finding a missing sheep. As the shepherd celebrates the found sheep, God rejoices when His children are safe and secure.

Parents have a duty to care for and protect their children. This responsibility extends beyond physical needs, encompassing spiritual growth and guidance in their relationship with God.

By doing so, we show God’s love for them and help build a strong spiritual foundation that acts as a protective shield throughout their lives.

Raising children is daunting, but we are not alone. God has given us His Word, brimming with wisdom and guidance, to help us tackle parenthood’s challenges.

Seeking His direction enables us to prioritize our children’s safety and well-being, both physically and spiritually.

In conclusion, the Bible highlights the importance of children in God’s kingdom and the protective role of guardian angels.

Parents have a divine responsibility to raise their children as spiritually strong individuals, guided by God’s wisdom. This ensures their safety and protection under the loving care of our Heavenly Father.

Colossians 3:21

Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Fathers’ impact on their children’s lives is immense. Colossians 3:21 delves into fatherly protection and guidance, drawing on essential Bible verses and examples.

We’ll discuss balancing discipline and guidance, the pitfalls of harsh parenting, the need for love, and the value of seeking God’s wisdom in raising children.

The Bible is filled with verses highlighting a father’s responsibility to nurture and protect his children. In Colossians 3:21, Paul advises fathers not to provoke their children to avoid discouragement.

This verse underlines the need for a balanced approach to discipline and guidance.

Ephesians 6:4 further emphasizes this point, urging fathers not to exasperate their children, but to bring them up with the Lord’s instruction.

Proverbs 13:24 states that loving fathers should be careful to discipline their children.

One inspiring biblical example is the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22. Abraham’s faith is tested when God asks him to sacrifice Isaac, his cherished son.

Despite the heart-wrenching task, Abraham trusts in God, showing his commitment to Isaac’s well-being.

In the end, God provides a ram as a substitute sacrifice, sparing Isaac and symbolizing the importance of a father’s love and protection.

A balanced approach to discipline and guidance is essential. Fathers who are too lenient may fail to teach their children about consequences and responsibility.

Alternatively, overly strict parenting can result in fear, resentment, and long-lasting emotional harm. Fathers should aim for a loving, understanding approach that fosters trust and respect.

Encouraging fathers to seek God’s wisdom is crucial. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord wholeheartedly and lean not on our understanding.

By seeking divine guidance, fathers can better tackle parenthood’s challenges, providing a stable and loving environment for their children.

A father’s love and protection significantly impact a child’s development. Consistently present, loving, and protective fathers can instill security and self-worth in their children.

Additionally, fathers who model godly behavior set the stage for a lifelong commitment to faith and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the role of fatherly protection and guidance is paramount in children’s lives.

By following the wisdom in Bible verses like Colossians 3:21 and seeking God’s guidance, fathers can positively influence their children’s development and contribute to their lasting sense of safety and well-being.

Let all fathers strive to balance discipline with love and understanding, nurturing their children under God’s grace.

Proverbs 29:15

A rod and a reprimand impart wisdom,but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother.

Discipline is crucial in raising and protecting children. It teaches self-control, respect, and boundary-setting.

The Bible is an excellent guide in this area, with Proverbs 29:15 emphasizing discipline’s importance. As parents, we must provide consistent, loving correction to help our children navigate life’s challenges.

Proverbs 13:24 highlights loving correction: “Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.”

This verse underscores the need for persistence and consistency in discipline. This approach ensures children learn from mistakes and feel secure.

Neglecting discipline has consequences. Proverbs 22:15 warns us: “Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.”

Failure to discipline may lead to harmful habits or risky behavior. Parents must be proactive in correcting children’s behavior and instilling a strong moral compass.

God’s wisdom is invaluable for parents seeking guidance. In 1 Kings 3:16-28, we find the famous story of King Solomon’s wisdom.

Solomon proposed to cut a baby in half, knowing the real mother would rather give up her child than see him harmed. This story teaches us to seek God’s wisdom for difficult parenting decisions.

Proper discipline fosters a child’s sense of security and safety. A child who understands boundaries and respects authority is likely to make wise choices.

By lovingly correcting our children, we set them up for a safer, more fulfilling life.

In conclusion, the Bible offers guidance for parents on discipline and protection. Adhering to verses such as Proverbs 29:15, Proverbs 13:24, and Proverbs 22:15, we provide our children with safety and security.

As parents, we must seek God’s wisdom in discipline, just as King Solomon did, to effectively guide our children towards a successful, secure future.

Proverbs 22:6

Start children off on the way they should go,
and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6 emphasizes the importance of spiritual guidance for children. This verse reminds parents of their duty to instill godly values in their children. Let’s explore various aspects of this verse.

Early spiritual training and guidance are essential in raising children. Like a plant needs care and nourishment, children require a spiritual environment to grow in faith.

Parents play a key role in creating this atmosphere by teaching them the Word of God.

Teaching children about God’s ways is a parent’s responsibility. It goes beyond sharing Bible stories or attending church. It involves showing God’s love, grace, and wisdom daily.

Both Deuteronomy 6:7 and Ephesians 6:4 emphasize this point.

A strong spiritual foundation protects children throughout their lives. It helps them make wise choices and avoid harmful influences. As they grow, their upbringing will continue to guide their actions and decisions.

Parents should model godly behavior for their children. Living a life of integrity, kindness, and humility, grounded in faith, is crucial. Children tend to follow their parents’ example, making it vital to practice what they preach.

A child’s spiritual upbringing plays a significant role in shaping their future choices. With a strong spiritual foundation, children are more likely to make wise decisions.

They also pass on their faith to future generations. This creates a lasting legacy of love and devotion to God.

2 Timothy 1:5 provides a biblical example of the importance of spiritual upbringing. Timothy, a young leader in the early church, was deeply influenced by his mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois.

Their dedication to raising Timothy in God’s ways played a significant role in shaping his character and spiritual path.

Today, families can prioritize weekly church attendance and Bible study to instill spiritual values in their children.

By establishing a faith-centered routine, parents can encourage their children to develop a strong relationship with God. This provides the protection and safety that come from a life grounded in His Word.

In conclusion, Proverbs 22:6 reminds parents of their vital role in guiding their children’s spiritual growth. Parents can create a strong spiritual foundation for their children by providing early spiritual training and modeling godly behavior.

This offers them protection and safety throughout their lives. The impact of this upbringing is profound, shaping the child’s future choices and the legacy they leave for generations to come.

Proverbs 19:18

Discipline your children, for in that there is hope;
do not be a willing party to their death.

The Bible offers timeless wisdom on raising children. In Proverbs 19:18, it highlights the value of discipline and correction.

This verse emphasizes timely intervention in a child’s life, crucial for their protection and safety. Let’s dive deeper into the importance of discipline using related scriptures and engaging examples.

Discipline is vital for children. It provides structure and teaches them about consequences. When parents step in at the right time, they can steer their children away from danger.

Proverbs 23:13-14 speaks of this: “Do not withhold discipline from a child… Punish them with the rod and save them from death.” The passage underlines consistent discipline as essential for a child’s well-being.

Eli’s story in the Bible is a sobering example. A high priest, he failed to discipline his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. In 1 Samuel 2:22-25, we learn about their immoral acts and God’s judgment.

Eli’s lack of discipline led to his family’s downfall. This story reminds us of discipline’s importance in guiding children and keeping them safe.

Modern times also show discipline’s value. Imagine a parent who discovers their teenager experimenting with drugs. By intervening and explaining the risks, the parent promotes their child’s safety and well-being.

This example highlights the power of timely correction.

Discipline teaches children to respect authority and understand the importance of rules. Hebrews 12:7 advises us: “Endure hardship as discipline… For what children are not disciplined by their father?”

This verse urges parents to seek God’s guidance when correcting their children. By following His example, they provide the structure needed for a safe and successful life.

In conclusion, the Bible sheds light on discipline’s crucial role in protecting our children. By intervening and correcting them with love, we help them develop a sense of security.

As parents, we must seek God’s guidance and remember the examples in Scripture. Doing so creates a nurturing environment for our children to grow and thrive.

Deuteronomy 6:7

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Deuteronomy 6:7 holds a profound message for every parent. It highlights their duty to teach children God’s commandments, laying the groundwork for a solid spiritual foundation.

This crucial responsibility should be woven into everyday life, offering a protective shield for children in our challenging world.

As parents, our mission is to share our faith and knowledge of God’s Word with our children. Deuteronomy 6:7 urges us to diligently teach them the Lord’s ways, discussing His commandments during daily routines.

Complementary scriptures, like Deuteronomy 11:19 and Proverbs 6:20-22, stress the importance of consistent spiritual teaching, proving it’s essential for parenthood.

Incorporating spiritual lessons into daily life helps children grasp the importance of God’s commandments. Such a process may involve praying together, attending church, participating in Bible study, and conversing about faith during mealtimes.

By doing this, parents foster a nurturing environment that promotes spiritual growth and a stronger bond with God.

Spiritual guidance serves as a protective barrier for children. It directs their decision-making and equips them with tools to face life’s challenges.

Instilling robust spiritual values empowers children to make wise choices, avoid danger, and rely on their faith in troubled times. This firm foundation of faith provides comfort and safety in an uncertain world.

Parents need to be intentional when teaching their children about God. This involves actively seeking ways to include spiritual discussions and activities in daily life.

It also means setting a positive example through personal behavior and displaying a genuine commitment to living by God’s commandments. Intentionality inspires children to develop a deep, meaningful relationship with God.

Consistent spiritual guidance greatly influences a child’s development, leading to increased resilience, empathy, and morality.

This spiritual foundation improves well-being and fosters a sense of safety.

Deuteronomy 6:1-9 highlights the importance of teaching children God’s commands, emphasizing the need to pass on faith and maintain a strong relationship with God across generations.

In modern times, parents can weave Bible stories into their child’s bedtime routine, offering an engaging way to share God’s Word.

This practice strengthens a child’s faith and understanding of God’s commandments, fostering security and protection in their lives.

To conclude, teaching children God’s commandments is vital in parenting. It offers a protective foundation and nurtures strong spiritual values.

By intentionally integrating spiritual instruction into daily life, parents can cultivate their children’s faith and enhance their overall well-being.

2 Timothy 3:15

and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Protecting our children is a top priority for parents. In our rapidly changing world, the Bible offers timeless guidance for our sons and daughters.

By introducing Scripture early, we set a solid spiritual foundation for their lives, ensuring their safety and security.

2 Timothy 3:15 highlights the significance of teaching children the Word of God. It reads: “From infancy, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”

This verse emphasizes the lifelong impact of biblical teachings on children’s well-being.

Psalm 119:105 offers a reminder of the Bible’s guiding role: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

Teaching Scripture equips our children with a spiritual compass, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges and stay rooted in their faith.

Proverbs 4:20-22 highlights the life-giving power of God’s Word: “My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.”

Scripture can offer children the wisdom, protection, and safety they need to thrive in a complex world.

The boy Jesus in the temple (Luke 2:41-52) illustrates the impact of early exposure to Scripture. At just 12, Jesus amazed religious teachers with His understanding.

This story shows the transformative power of engaging with the Bible, which can profoundly shape a child’s spiritual growth.

In modern times, parents can find creative ways to engage children with Scripture.

For example, a parent and child might participate in a Scripture memorization challenge, bonding over a shared spiritual experience while reinforcing biblical teachings.

Consider these steps to nurture your child’s spiritual foundation:

1. Prioritize Scripture in your child’s spiritual development by making Bible reading a regular family activity.
2. Help your child understand the Bible’s role in providing guidance and protection, encouraging them to turn to Scripture in challenging times.
3. Teach your children the Word of God and model godly behavior for them to follow.
4. Make Scripture a central part of your child’s life, incorporating it into daily activities like bedtime stories, prayer time, and family discussions.
5. Show your child the impact of biblical knowledge on their sense of safety and security, emphasizing the lifelong protection it offers.

By integrating Scripture into our children’s lives, we empower them with wisdom and guidance.

We foster a sense of safety and security that lasts a lifetime, fulfilling our roles as responsible parents and shaping the next generation of spiritually grounded individuals.

Proverbs 29:17

Discipline your children, and they will give you peace;
they will bring you the delights you desire.

Discipline may seem daunting, but it’s essential for raising responsible, respectful kids.

Proverbs 29:17 highlights discipline’s role in a child’s life. With the right approach, discipline fosters safety, security, and character development.

Discipline offers many benefits. It teaches children about actions and consequences, showing them right from wrong. It also helps develop vital life skills like self-control and problem-solving.

Proverbs 22:15 drives this point home: “Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.”

Loving, consistent discipline is crucial for a child’s safety and security.

By setting clear boundaries and enforcing them fairly, parents show their dedication to their child’s well-being. Children feel secure and protected, confident that their parents have their back.

Hebrews 12:11 illustrates this idea: “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

Discipline aims to instill respect and obedience. By teaching children to honor authority, parents create a foundation for safe navigation in the world. This includes respect for parents, teachers, and other caring adults.

The biblical story of Samuel’s obedience to Eli and God (1 Samuel 3) highlights discipline’s importance. As a young boy, Samuel attentively obeyed Eli, the high priest, and God.

This obedience allowed him to become a great prophet, guiding the Israelites during challenging times. Samuel’s story shows how discipline and respect for authority lead to a fulfilling, successful life.

In today’s world, parents can set and enforce curfews for teenagers. Establishing clear expectations and consequences for breaking curfew ensures a child’s safety and demonstrates parental commitment to their well-being.

This approach protects the child and teaches them the value of respecting boundaries and prioritizing safety.

Parents should seek God’s wisdom in disciplining their children. Through Scripture and prayer, they can find guidance to discipline effectively and lovingly.

Divine support helps parents strike the right balance between correction and compassion, ensuring discipline benefits a child’s overall growth.

In summary, proper discipline shapes a child’s character. It teaches essential life skills, encourages respect and obedience, and contributes to their safety and security.

By embracing the principles found in Bible verses about discipline, parents can protect their children while nurturing their growth into responsible, well-rounded individuals.

Psalm 127:3-5

Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. ⁴ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. ⁵ Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.

Children are amazing gifts from God. Psalm 127:3-5 reminds us of this divine blessing. With such a gift comes great responsibility.

Parents must care for, protect, and love their children, realizing their immense value in God’s eyes. Through the Bible, we learn how embracing our children as cherished gifts can impact their self-worth and safety.

The Bible shows God’s love for children and the blessings they bring. In Genesis 33:5, Jacob introduces his children to Esau, calling them God’s gracious gifts.

This moment of reconciliation highlights the essential role children play as divine blessings, uniting families.

James 1:17 emphasizes children as God’s gifts. Every good and perfect gift comes from above, including our sons and daughters.

By acknowledging our children as beautiful, God-given treasures, we’re inspired to treat them with love, care, and protection.

Genesis 48:8-9 illustrates valuing a child as a divine gift. Here, Jacob blesses his grandchildren, Ephraim and Manasseh. He lovingly embraces them, acknowledging their role in carrying forward his lineage and God’s promises.

Parents today advocate for children’s well-being and safety. They ensure quality education, proper nutrition, and a safe environment.

For instance, a parent might work closely with their child’s school, addressing concerns to ensure their child’s safety and success. By recognizing their child as a gift, this parent takes responsibility for nurturing and protecting them.

Let’s consider these points:

a. Children as God’s gift: Each child is unique and cherished, bringing joy and purpose to our lives.

b. Parental responsibility: Ensure children’s safety, happiness, and well-being.

c. Recognizing children’s value: Understand that children hold immense value in God’s eyes and deserve love, care, and protection.

d. Encouraging parents: Foster an environment of love, support, and encouragement, helping your children reach their potential.

e. Parental love’s impact: Give children a secure foundation to develop self-worth and confidence.

In summary, the Bible highlights the significance of children as divine blessings. Our responsibility as parents is to love and safeguard these valuable gifts.

By fulfilling this duty, we promote their safety, ultimately guiding them to reach their full potential.

More Bible verses for the safety of your child

Proverbs 23:13-14

Proverbs 22:15

Deuteronomy 4:9

2 Timothy 1:5

Proverbs 4:1-2

Proverbs 4:3-4

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Psalm is for kids protection?

Psalm 91 is perfect for kids’ protection. This passage, known as the “Protection Psalm,” is filled with God’s care, shelter, and deliverance promises.

Verses 11-12 mention angels guarding and protecting, making it ideal for praying over your children’s safety.

What is the scripture for protection for my son?

For your son’s protection, look to Isaiah 54:13. It says, “All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.” This scripture assures God’s guidance and peace, keeping your children safe.

What God promises to protect children?

God’s promises to protect children are found in several scriptures. In Matthew 18:10, Jesus emphasizes the importance of children and warns against causing them harm.

Deuteronomy 6:7 highlights teaching God’s commandments to children, offering a strong spiritual foundation.

How do I pray for my child to be saved?

To pray for your child’s salvation, first, seek God’s guidance in raising them. To foster a deep love for the Lord in your child, trust in Proverbs 22:6.

It emphasizes guiding children in their spiritual journey, with the assurance that they will not depart from God’s path. Trust in His promises and seek His grace for your child’s guidance.

How do you pray scriptures over your child?

When praying scriptures over your child, choose passages that reflect your intentions. Speak them aloud and personalize them with your child’s name.

For example, pray Ephesians 6:10-11 over your child: “I pray that [child’s name] will be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might, putting on the whole armor of God to stand against the schemes of the devil.”

What’s a good Bible verse for children?

Proverbs 3:5-6 is an excellent verse for children, encouraging them to trust and seek God’s guidance.

It is essential for their spiritual growth and well-being, reminding them to rely on the Lord and follow His path throughout their lives.

God’s protection over your children (Edification)

1. It starts with you

Getting married and setting up a family is often not an easy task.

You are never too sure about the kind of kids that God blesses you with.

You neither know their qualities nor what the future holds for them.

But, even when you can’t ascertain their future, you can shape them.

Protecting your child Starts with discipline.

The scripture says,

Train up a child in the way he should go,
^[a]And when he is old he will not depart from it.

It is pretty common to see parents scared of disciplining their children.

They are afraid of the pain and suffering that they would go through.

But, if you want the best for your kids, you must teach them and discipline them when they are wrong.

2. Be prayerful

It is challenging to train a child on your own.

You do not give life and, therefore, cannot control it.

We must pray to God — the giver of life and children.

God knows your child more than you do.

Most importantly, he can stiffen or make softer the hearts of your kids.

So, be prayerful.

Ask God for divine security over your children.

Ask God for protection over your household.

3. Choose their friends

We’ve all been there in the past and understand the impact that friends had on our behaviors growing up.

Your role as a mother or father is to nurture your kids from the beginning.

It is essential to choose their friends mainly because they could easily be misled.

The scriptures say,

Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

Author: Akatakpo DunnDr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Akatakpo Dunn

Dr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.