Parenting by the Book
STUDY 344
Text: Proverbs 28
27 January 2008
Dear Parents,
TRUE AND FALSE WISDOM
Wisdom is something that everybody claims! The following text discusses the contest of true wisdom between the rich and the poor.
The rich man is wise in his own eyes,
But the poor who has understanding searches him out.Proverbs 28:11
A COMMENTARY ON THE RICH
Psalm 49 offers a deep insight as to how the wealthy thinks! Five things may be highlighted! The rich man often thinks he is wise in his own eyes!
1. They trust in their wealth (Psalm 49:6).
2. They boast in their riches (Psalm 49:6).
3. They think their houses would last forever (Psalm 49:11).
4. They bless themselves for their good fortune (Psalm 49:18).
5. They fail to fully grasp that their glory would end at death (Psalm 49:17).
ONE IMPORTANT TRUTH THAT IS OVERLOOKED BY THE RICH
The rich often overlook the importance of the spiritual. They do not give time to consider the state of their souls, in particular their redemption.
None of them can by any means redeem his brother,
Nor give to God a ransom for him.Psalm 49:7
THE POOR WHO HAS UNDERSTANDING
The poor person who has true spiritual wisdom and understanding is far better off. He may not have all the wealth this world offers, but if he has redemption from God, he has all that really matters.
But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave,
For He shall receive me.Psalm 49:15
TEACHING OUR CHILDREN TO VALUE SPIRITUAL THINGS
One of our challenges as committed Christian parents must be to teach our children how to appreciate spiritual values. A deep appreciation of spiritual values is not easily obtained. Hence there must be diligence on the part of all parents. The effort put in would not be in vain! May our children value spiritual and eternal things.
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie