Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Proverbs 22:6 (ESV) Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.
TRAINING FOR LIFE
There is no doubt that this promise of God given through Solomon has given comfort to many a parent whose child has chosen a rebellious way. These words are meant to be a comfort to those who conscientiously train up their children -- in God's Word and will.
These words do not mean merely that if we raise our children the way we think best all will work out in the end. The LORD God would have us raise them to think in agreement with His Word and to choose their path according to His will revealed in that Word. The LORD God would also have us raise them to know that when they fail and sin they are not simply to promise to do better, but to lay their sins on Jesus the spotless Lamb of God.
This training is in the LORD and in His Word. Not just any training will do. We have need of divine wisdom. This training corrects what is contrary to God's will, while approving what is in agreement with it. This training corrects in love, not anger. This training approves, not by encouraging personal pride, but by showing how true faith strives to glorify God.
This is the lasting wisdom and godly training of which Solomon speaks. Christ Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of godly wisdom which we strive with the help of the Spirit to know and understand. This is the training that by the grace of God has eternal benefits.
