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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 83

STUDY 83

Text: Proverbs 11
26 January 2003

Dear Parents,

CULTIVATING INTEGRITY IN OUR CHILDREN
How do we teach “integrity” to our children? It seems such an abstract concept. The Book of Proverbs is unique in more ways than one. One of the ways in which it communicates effectively is to turn abstract concepts into concrete and practical truths. Let us consider the following texts.

Let us first note the way “integrity” is introduced.

The integrity of the upright will guide them,
But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.

Proverbs 11:3

Next, let us notice how the writer built on the word “upright”.

Riches do not profit in the day of wrath,
But righteousness delivers from death.
The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright,
But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness.
The righteousness of the upright will deliver them,
But the unfaithful will be caught by their lusts.

Proverbs 11:4-6

“RIGHTEOUSNESS” IS A GOOD EQUIVALENT WORD FOR “INTEGRITY”
Whenever we have to teach a difficult subject, we would be well advised to look at other supporting texts that may help to explain a complex one. In this case, the word “integrity” may be used interchangeably with the words “righteousness” or “uprightness”.

Don’t be afraid to teach children hard words. They may not be able to fully grasp the entire concept, but they are not totally devoid of understanding either. Integrity may be explained as:-

1. Being an upright person.

2. Having a life marked by righteousness.

3. The righteous person is one who tries and live blamelessly.

4. Righteousness is a part of his life and character.

OBVIOUSLY, A DIFFICULT CONCEPT TO TEACH
Let’s never get discouraged when we have to teach difficult subjects. Through patient teaching, through the example of our life, we can teach children much about “integrity”. Let us not cease praying about the work of parenting.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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