Child Rearing

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” (Proverbs 22:6, 15, KJV).

Comments today are not a treatise on how to rear children. That is a whole study in child psychology. But herein will be some thoughts on child rearing using the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and claiming the promise given with Proverbs 22:6.

Parents have a grave and serious responsibility. The ideal is for a couple to have children out of love and respect for one another and to follow God’s plan for family life. As a rule, there is great happiness when an innocent baby is born into a family. There is anticipation for what that child can grow up to be and what he/she can become in life. Grave responsibility falls on the parents to bring the child up in a godly way. The writer of Proverbs was in the “old school” of not sparing the rod. Modern psychology has found means other than application of physical punishment to curb children’s wayward behavior. To correct and guide children is the responsibility of the parents. It takes discipline to “grow up” a well-rounded, good, responsible citizen from the little bundle of joy that first graces a cradle in the home.

To be able to train up a child in the way he should go, parents themselves must be disciplined and practice the teachings of God’s Word. To have adequate role models to follow is one of the best teachers. Everyone learns by example. Combine good example and good guidance with much prayer for the children entrusted to their care and upbringing, and parents will be following through on the Lord’s plan for training children. A good church family and good schools can and do help tremendously in the tasks of child rearing. And what we term “tough love” is necessary for proper nurture and growth. The Message Bible is clear on Proverbs 22:6 and 15: “Point your kids in the right direction—when they’re old they won’t be lost. Young people are prone to foolishness and fads; the cure comes through tough-minded discipline.” Hold onto the promise that with the proper foundation and teachings, the child will come back to the basic principles he learned at his parents’ knees. Now, in retrospect, I see this fulfilled time and time again. Selah!

c Ethelene Dyer Jones; Friday, July 23, 2010