Today: Proverbs 4
Solomon begins the chapter by talking to his own son about his father David, the man after God’s own heart:
My children, listen to me. Listen to your father’s instruction. Pay attention and grow wise, for I am giving you good guidance. Don’t turn away from my teaching. For I, too, was once my father’s son, tenderly loved by my mother as an only child (Proverbs 4:1-3, NLT).
I wish I had a father who did this, but unfortunately my dad did not have this in him. Neither did his dad for him. But this is the kind of dad I desire to be for my kids, and I hope they can someday look back and say these words to their children about their relationship with me and their mom. Here’s the first secret: Desire to be a great parent, regardless of your past.
Solomon continues,
My father told me, “Take my words to heart. Follow my instructions and you will live. Learn to be wise, and develop good judgment. Don’t forget or turn away from my words (Proverbs 4:4-5, NLT).
Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; then stick to the path and stay safe. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil (Proverbs 4:25-27, NLT).
I’m sure King Solomon knew that he could only do what he could do as a parent and that perhaps, like in the story of the prodigal son, his children might choose the wrong way; they may wander off the path God has set for them. In that case, I believe that Solomon was wise enough to let them go, pray like crazy, and wait for their repentant return. It is so hard for a parent to see his child’s back as he or she walks away, but there aren’t many better feelings than seeing them running back with their arms open wide! Secret #6: Entrust God with your children and have his grace with them.
What do you think of these 7 Secrets from Proverbs 4? Did I miss any? Would you add anything?
How are you doing on these 7? Which do you do best? Which do you need to work on today?