Parenting by the Book
STUDY 130
Text: Proverbs 15
Dear Parents,
GOOD COUNSEL
How badly we need good counsel in life. How hard it is to find wise counsel. Let us be deeply encouraged by this word.
Without counsel, plans go awry,
But in the multitude of counselors they are established.Proverbs 15:22
It is important to teach children how to seek good counsel. Not all children would seek out good counsel. They are very much inclined to do what they feel or think is right. They must be encouraged to seek good counsel. The first exposure to obtaining good counsel would be naturally from you – their parents!
If children are taught from young this principle of seeking out good counsel before a decision is made, and action taken, they would be spared from lots of heartache and problems.
1. The Individual
The individual is naturally limited to just his store of knowledge and experience. He may not see other aspects or perspectives that could have helped him make a better decision. Without the benefit of good counsel, individual plans can “go awry” indeed.
2. Multitude of Counselors
Every child ought to know that he is not alone. He may rely on the experience and wisdom of his parents, grandparents etc. If a child is brought up with good and healthy experiences of being supported by a “multitude of counselors” he might well find good success.
WHY CHILDREN DO NOT SEEK COUNSEL
There are many reasons why children end up neglecting to seek good counsel. Let us list just two reasons (there could be many more):-
1. Fear of being rebuffed
It is important that children do not feel put down or despised when they seek counsel from parents. If they feel despised, they would not seek counsel at all.
2. Over-confidence
Sometimes children can be caught up with the problem of over-confidence! To deflate their over-confidence is not the answer. The challenge is to give such good counsel that their confidence is based on solid ground! This comes from good counsel that we can give from the Scriptures.
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie