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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 110

STUDY 110

Text: Proverbs 14
3 August 2003

Dear Parents,

TEACHING OUR CHILDREN TO SPEAK THE TRUTH
Children learn to lie very young in age. They soon learn how to become very skilled at lying. They figure that one of the best ways out is to lie. One of the challenges of parenting is to teach children how to speak the truth and love it.

A true witness delivers souls,
But a deceitful witness speaks lies.

Proverbs 14:25

INTERPRETING WORDS
The context of the word “witness” is not specified. This is often the case in the Book of Proverbs. However we may apply the text correctly if we make certain safe assumptions. Two things must be borne in mind.

1. The normal use of the word

The word “witness” is often used in the context of a law court. Of course the witness is under oath to speak the truth.

2. The application of the word in a specified context

The application of the word “witness” in a law court does not do the word any harm. In fact this application makes the interpretation even more significant and clear.

A TRUE WITNESS IN A COURT OF LAW
When a person is put on the witness stand, he is bound by oath to speak nothing but the truth.

1. The witness bears in mind that the oath is taken in the Name of God.

2. He is in fact calling on God to be his witness that he is speaking the truth.

3. He is in grave danger of being on the wrong side of the law if he perjures himself.

4. Worse, he sins against God when he speaks lies.

5. A special word of encouragement is given to the witness. If he tells the truth, he could help the innocent. He will “deliver souls”.

Children can be taught to love the truth. They can be taught to reject deceitful ways. If they are well and consistently taught, children can become righteous and godly people. Be challenged to teach children how to speak truth consistently.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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