Parenting by the Book
STUDY 187
Text: Proverbs 17
23 January 2005
Dear Parents,
TALK TO CHILDREN ABOUT THE WORLD WE LIVE IN
One aspect of parenting involves talking to our children about the world we live in. Children tend to be naïve and innocent in their outlook of life. They see the world through idealistic eyes.
We need to help children understand that we live in a very imperfect world. We need not disillusion them, but we do need to help them see the world in a more realistic way!
These talks with children can be very fruitful. They are certainly most important for their growth!
AN IMPERFECT WORLD
We live in a very imperfect world! The presence of evil in the world only heightens this reality. The following text serves to remind us of the world we live in.
Also to punish the righteous is not good,
Nor to strike princes for their uprightness.Proverbs 17:26
1. In an imperfect world the righteous are punished
It is a sad but true observation – the righteous are struck down by the wicked!
2. In an imperfect world we must never allow ourselves to be discouraged
It is so easy to throw in the towel. It is so easy to join the ranks of the world, to “get ahead.” Righteousness can be cast aside all too easily!
3. The place of the righteous in the world
The righteous may be victimized when wickedness goes unchecked! Society is in grave danger when the righteous are struck down! The upright must determine that they would never allow wickedness and injustice to prevail no matter the consequences!
A CALM SPIRIT
Children can become very uptight because they do not know how to comprehend this wicked world we live in. Parenting involves more than mere discussion. Good parenting sets great goals. One of them is the cultivation of a strong and solid godly spirit.
He who has knowledge spares his words,
And a man of understanding is of calm spirit.Proverbs 17:27
Through careful teaching, our children can become very knowledgeable! They can also possess a very calm spirit! Let us be encouraged to bring up stable children who will be guided by understanding and wisdom as they live in this imperfect world!
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie