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STUDY 171

Text: Proverbs 17
3 October 2004

Dear Parents,

UGLY TRAITS THAT CAN BADLY MAR OUR CHILDREN
It is important that we take note of things that threaten the healthy growth of our children. Let us take notice of some of those things that can hurt badly.

An evildoer gives heed to false lips,
A liar listens eagerly to a spiteful tongue.
He who mocks the poor reproaches his Maker;
He who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished.

Proverbs 17:4-5

1. “False lips”

Children learn to lie from a very young age. There are many reasons why children resort to lying.

a) Fear of punishment

b) Testing the gullibility or wisdom of parents

c) More devious reasons

There will always be some who will “teach” them how to do things like that. We have to be on the alert that our children do not pick up this inclination to speak with “false lips.”

2. “A spiteful tongue”

The manifestations are sometimes more worrying than first comprehended.

a) Spite must be dealt with promptly.

b) It can lead to physical fighting (bullying).

c) It can lead to tantrums!

3. “Mocking the poor”

One sin leads to another. From false lips to spite; from spite to mockery of the poor. Every effort must be made to ensure that these sinful inclinations are dealt with summarily.

4. “Glad at calamity”

This describes people who have the following problems:-

a) Insensitivity to others

b) Enjoying other people’s calamities demonstrates a calloused heart

REPROACHING THE MAKER
Ultimately all sins are committed not only against mankind, but against the Lord too. Let us work hard at helping our children to grow up well!

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie