Parenting by the Book
STUDY 31
Text: Proverbs 2:1-4
27 January 2002
Dear Parents,
BE AN ENCOURAGER
As we look at Proverbs 2, we will recognize that the wise parent will have to play multiple roles if he wishes to fulfill all his responsibilities. One of the greatest challenge is to be “an encourager”.
What is an encourager? How does one play that role? Here are a number of things an encourager must attempt to do:-
1. He must be prepared to teach the children diligently.
2. He must choose to be positive at all times.
3. He must find good and challenging words to give to his children.
4. He must not be discouraged even if he has to repeat himself again and again.
CHILDREN RESPOND WELL TO ENCOURAGEMENT
How do children respond when they are taught? Some parents can end up being overly negative. Children usually do not respond well to negative comments.
On the other hand, it is noted that children respond quite positively to positive and encouraging instruction. The compilers of the Book of Proverbs must have noted this truth and thus collected encouraging words of wisdom and put them together for future generations to use. Pray about being an encourager. Practise being an encouraging person.
“MY SON, IF YOU RECEIVE MY WORDS, AND TREASURE MY COMMANDS WITHIN YOU…” PROVERBS 2:1
Learning to speak encouragingly also means that we must learn how to use our words well. Note the way in which this parent speaks to his children.
1. Note the gentleness of spirit.
2. Note the warmth as well.
3. Note the tone of encouragement.
4. Note the use of reason.
These things are also important to pick up even as we seek to be encouragers to our children. The employment of encouraging words will go a long way to help our children learn the desired lessons.
CHALLENGE CHILDREN TO BE ACHIEVERS
Parents feel “happy” when they can provide for their children adequately. They have every reason to feel satisfied.
However, parents must also recognize that they must not “over-provide” for their children. They must challenge their children to attempt to become achievers of their own accord. (Study Proverbs 2:1-4 and see how children are encouraged and challenged to search for wisdom of their own accord).
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie