Parenting by the Book
STUDY 150
Text: Proverbs 16
9 May 2004
Dear Parents,
THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE LORD IN OUR LIFE
How important it is to teach our children about how the Lord wants to be involved in our life. The following text brings out this great truth most significantly.
The preparations of the heart belong to man,
But the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.Proverbs 16:1
1. Unconsciousness of the Lord’s involvement in our life
Many are not consciously aware or appreciative of the Lord’s involvement in our life. We miss out so much when we lack this awareness.
2. Cultivating a wonderful sense of consciousness of the Lord’s involvement in our life.
We are that much more blessed when we cultivate consciousness of the Lord’s actual involvement in our life.
OUR PART MUST BE FULFILLED
What is our role, if God is involved in our life so much? The answer lies in the statement,
The preparations of the heart belong to man…
Proverbs 16:1
Let us consider other portions of Scripture that will shed some light on this subject.
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts,
And be ready always to give a defense to everyone
who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you,
with meekness and fear.1 Peter 3:15
Our part according to this text is to sanctify the Lord in our hearts. We must find the courage to speak of our faith in the Lord. He will come to our aid.
THE LORD’S PART
The Lord Jesus warned His disciples that they must be prepared to suffer for their faith. They must however not be afraid, for He will send them the Holy Spirit who will help them in their effort to bear witness.
For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father
who speaks in you.Matthew 10:20 (Cp. Proverbs 16:1b)
GREAT CONFIDENCE IN LIFE
If children are taught that they are not alone, but that they have the Spirit of God with them, they would find great confidence in life!
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie