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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 48

STUDY 48

Text: Proverbs 3:31-35
26 May 2002

Dear Parents,

WATCH OUT FOR PERVERSE TENDENCIES
We often imagine that our children will grow up admiring and pursuing noble tendencies. This is not necessarily true. It is possible for children to actually be drawn to perverse things. The reason why this is the case is straightforward. We are sinful creatures, and we are far more inclined to evil and sin, than we realize. Therefore, we must always be on the alert concerning the perverse tendencies that are in our children’s hearts. Let us consider these words of advice found in this passage of Scripture.

Do not envy the oppressor,
And choose none of his ways.

Proverbs 3:31

Oppressors are usually people with strength. They tend to be bullies. They tend to throw their weight around. Interestingly, children “respect” or even secretly “admire” these bullies. Deep down in their hearts, they actually “envy the oppressor”. If invited to “join the gang” children are sorely tempted to be part of the group of power and influence. It is important that as parents, we spot these problems early, and steer children away from such perverse tendencies.

THE BETTER ALTERNATIVE
If children are told that something is not good, an alternative must be offered. Here is the Biblical alternative.

For the perverse person is an abomination to the LORD,
But His secret counsel is with the upright.
The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked,
But He blesses the home of the just.
Surely He scorns the scornful,
But gives grace to the humble,
The wise shall inherit glory.
But shame shall be the legacy of fools.

Proverbs 3:32-35

We must teach our children the way of the Lord. We must impress upon them the fact that the perverse person is truly an abomination in His sight. Those who pursue perverse things are considered “fools” in God’s sight.

Instead of choosing perversity, we offer our children the blessing of the Lord. His blessings will come upon “the upright”, “the just”, the “humble” and “the wise”. The blessings of the Lord are wonderful. They include His “counsel”, “grace” and “glory”. Let us be challenged to teach our children to walk in the ways of the Lord diligently.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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