Parenting by the Book
STUDY 30
Text: Proverbs 1 : 10-18
20 January 2002
Dear Parents,
ADDRESS DEEP MORAL ISSUES
Sometimes, as parents we do not address deep moral issues as often as we should. We seem to be caught up with problems like doing well in school, health, and other mundane issues. They have their place, but moral issues cannot be neglected. They must be addressed. What are some of these issues that we must deal with?
1. The issue of Crime
It is good to teach children how to look at right and wrong. They must be taught how to distinguish between that which is good and that which is criminal.
2. The issue of Violence
Children must be taught other ways of expressing themselves than to resort to violence. If untaught, violence can actually prove to be fascinating and even attractive, especially to boys.
3. The issue of Greed
Greed has always been a problem with mankind. Many crimes are committed because of the sin of greed. How important it is to teach children from a very young age what it means to be contented. If the problem of greed is not well addressed, the problem of resorting to criminal activities to satisfy greed could result.
Children when taught from young about morals, would be far more thoughtful about their behaviour. They would also learn how to choose their friends more carefully. Hopefully, they would be able to distinguish and discern good from evil, and choose the former as their way of life.
TEACH CHILDREN THE IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE OF CAUSE AND EFFECT
Children can be taught how to think! An important basic principle that they can learn well is “cause and effect”. Many children do not think about why they do what they do. Neither do they bother about the effects or consequences of their actions. This careless and unthinking approach towards life must be challenged.
However, we must be prepared for “the long haul”. Children will not be able to learn about moral issues, or how to think wisely quickly and easily. These are abstract principles that are difficult for them to grasp. Nevertheless, our deep love and concern for our children should motivate us powerfully, so that we would keep trying to teach our children these important lessons of life.
THE VOICE OF WISDOM
Some children are born smarter than others. However, wisdom is acquired. No one is born wise! Between intelligence and wisdom, the latter is of greater significance. We can’t give our children intelligence. However, we can offer them wisdom drawn from the Lord’s Word. That is surely one of the best gifts that we could give to our children. Let us press on determinedly to learn how to be good and effective children.
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie