Starting young

My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, . . . you will understand the fear of the Lord.                 — Proverbs 2:1, 5

Addie was a bit worried. Before we all sat down for Sunday dinner, someone had started eating. That’s when our 3-year-old granddaughter said, “We haven’t prayed yet.” She was concerned that we might forget to give thanks.

Her concern was a good sign. It showed that at her young age, Addie was beginning to form one of those good habits that parents teach their children as part of their instructions for life. This little routine, for instance, helps her see the value of prayer and thanksgiving, which can be a powerful resource for her in the years ahead.

Raising children in an age of hostility toward the Christian faith is not easy. Parents wonder how best to help their little ones learn to trust the Savior and live to please Him. Proverbs indicates that a key to directing children is through purposeful instruction by parents (Prov. 1:8) on such things as listening to wisdom (2:2), seeking discernment (2:3), understanding the fear of the Lord (2:5), recalling parents’ teaching (3:1), and gaining insight (4:1). These become habitual when parents give instruction and when children “retain” those words of teaching (4:1-4).

Got kids or grandkids? It’s never too early to begin instructing them in wise living.   — Dave Branon

God gives us children for a time

To teach them how to love the Lord,

To train them in His righteous ways,

To follow and obey His Word. — Sper

READ: Proverbs 2

The character of your children  tomorrow depends on what you put into their hearts today.

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 113-115

• 1 Corinthians 6