12.27.23
‘Parental Advice’
My son, hear the instruction of your father, and forsake not the law of your mother: for they shall be an ornament of grace unto your head, and chains about your neck. (Proverbs (1:8, 9)
We are walking through the first few chapters of the Book of Proverbs. Written by Solomon to Rehoboam his son and future king, the precepts of the book are directed to young people.
The first seven verses of Proverbs 1, which we have already examined, stressed the importance of wisdom in one’s life. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (7)
This world, of course, offers many variations of wisdom. However, true life-changing, life-guiding wisdom, can only be found in the Word of God. As one gives oneself to a study of and a submission to the precepts of Scripture, can one find a life of genuine purpose and joy. When Jesus Christ is the Lord of your life, you have an eternal Savior and Friend.
Today we focus on the next section (1:8-19). Here we find a direct message from Solomon to Rehoboam, from father to son. What are the primary messages this parent is giving to his child?
First, a child must have a proper attitude towards his parents. As you read these verses, note the equality of father and mother. Both parents have a vital role in the rearing of a child. We find this to be a regular theme throughout the book (6:20). This godly parental instruction, when heeded, will be as an ornament of character to the child, visible to all.
Second, a child needs to learn to say ‘No’ to sin (10). My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. ‘No,’ of course, is one of the first words a child learns. However, a parent needs to guide the child to direct this word, not towards authority, but to that which is evil. Joseph and Daniel were men who were taught to say ‘No’ to wickedness at home. When temptation came to them, they ran from it, because they had long before determined in their hearts to do so.
The right selection of friends is the third principle (11-14). Peer pressure is a powerful influence especially on the young. David and Johnathan were best of friends, and wonderful influences upon one another. In contrast, David’s son Amnon made some very wrong and tragic choices. A strong influence came from a so-called friend named Jonadab.
The fourth principle is that a child needs to learn simply to avoid sin (15-19). My son, do not walk in the way with them; refrain your foot from their path: (15). The text notes some of the various traps that Satan and the wicked set for all. Being alert for Satan’s wiles is a trait that can and should be taught in the home.
The next section (1:20-33) describes the call that wisdom gives to all mankind. This we will plan to take up next.dab.