Well folks, I’ve caught the design bug! I’m also learning how use Photoshop, which I still think is the most user unfriendly design software program. But it’s also a software program that allows you to do some pretty cool things! So while it’s true you may see a different background each time you come by, please keep coming by! LOL!
So with that said, let’s look at Proverb 22…
”Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
This verse is one almost everyone can recite, especially parents. I’m not a parent, but I’ll tell you what Gods says about being one. We all know that kids are like a sponge… they soak everything up. They’re watching you, and as a parent it’s up to you to discern different paths for each of your children. By discerning different paths for each child, I think this verse implies that parents should distinguish the individuality, talents, and gifts God has given each child. The Bible says we should not condone or excuse a child’s self-will. The world has so many strong-willed and rebellious children, and when I read this warning (which is exactly what it really is), I immediately go to 2 Timothy 3: 1-2…
“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful.” Also, look at 1Timothy 4: 16…
“Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.”
Reading this about self-will brings back many memories. Mind you, I was unsaved… I didn’t know God’s Word, and I thought all kids were bratty, spoiled, and disobedient. But now, because I do know what God has to say on the whole parenting subject… I totally understand the way those kids got the way they did (or how some children behave today). The undisputed fact is that they never had, or they are not receiving any godly influence. I know raising children is controversial to many. I’m just the messenger. If you have a problem with what I Just wrote… You must take it up with God.
Many parents want to make all the choices for their child, but this hurts him/her in the long run. When parents teach a child how to make decisions, they don’t have to watch every step they take. They know their children will remain on the right path because they have made the choice themselves. Train your children to choose the right way.
This isn’t saying if you train your child in knowing the things of God, he/she will always “stay” with God. I’ve heard many stories of people who grew up surrounded by church and godly parents, yet still turned out to be rebellious, or become atheists, drug addicts, murderers… etc. But I can’t tell you how many stories I’ve heard that when circumstances force people to become broken or drives them to the end of themselves… those godly principles still run through their veins, and the seeds that were planted in childhood (maybe long ago) start to grow. The Bible tells us that someone will plant the seed, and someone will water it, but only God can make it grow.