Parenting by the Book
STUDY 214
Text: Proverbs 19
31 July 2005
Dear Parents,
KEEPING THE COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD
From the earliest times, parents have always been challenged to teach their children how to keep the commandments of the Lord. Let us take a look at one of those texts!
And these words which I command you today shall be
in your heart. And you shall teach them diligently to your children,
and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk
by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.Deuteronomy 6:6-7
AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO PERSEVERE IN THIS TASK
The keeping of God’s word is not an easy thing to do. Thus, the Scriptures contain many words of encouragement to persevere in this challenge!
He who keeps the commandment keeps his soul,
But he who is careless of his ways will die.Proverbs 19:16
1. The value of the soul
What is the value of the soul? Surely the value of a soul is indescribably priceless! It follows that every effort must be made to “keep the soul”.
2. Keeping of God’s commandments
The keeping of God’s commandments will lead to a life that is greatly blessed! What is one of the greatest blessings one could have? The answer would be “the keeping of the soul” rather than “material benefits”!
3. The problem of “carelessness”
Many are not careless when it comes to matters of health and wealth! However, many are “careless” when it comes to the matter of keeping the soul!
4. Adverse results because of carelessness
As in mundane matters, where there is carelessness, disasters can result, so in matters related to the soul! We have a most solemn word of admonition here. The person careless concerning his ways “will die”.
CHOOSING TO BE CAREFUL WITH REFERENCE TO THE SOUL
Carelessness will cost a person dearly! Carefulness on the other hand leads to great blessings! It is good to teach children to care about the state of their souls! They can be taught to pay more attention to spiritual matters! Start them young!
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie