What Our Children Should Know
by Pat McIntosh
Sometimes I think children know too much today. There are things that are common knowledge today that were spoken of only in private 30 years ago. The internet has provided more opportunities for education than many can imagine, but that same blessing can also be a curse regarding the worldly things that are readily available.
However, there is nothing more important in our children’s education than learning what the Bible has to say about their present and future. Proverbs 4 mentions several of these things, yet does not provide an exhaustive list. First, they need to know that they have parents that love them. This is closely tied, in this text, to the view that they need to listen to their parents (vs. 1-4). Parents who love their children will guide them in the way that God would have them go (Prov. 22:6).
Second, they need to know about God and a personal relationship with Him (vs. 5-9). Solomon stands as a clear example of one who came to a proper understanding of God and his relationship with Him (Eccl. 12:13-14). It is good to be concerned about the secular education of our children, but there is something much more important and eternal in nature.
Finally, our children need to know how to make the proper decisions in life (vs. 10-19). We regularly speak of “two ways” regarding spiritual matters. The “right way” is that which is acceptable to God. The “wrong way” is often popular among men, but is unacceptable to God. We need to teach our children how to make good, spiritual choices in life.
As parents, we are entrusted with the well-being of our kids. They have been placed in our care. May we recognize the stewardship issue at hand, realizing the importance of their spiritual preparation.
Sunday A.M. Sermon – What Every Child Needs to Know (Prov. 4:1-27)
Every Child Needs to Know…
- He has parents who love him
- The importance of listening to his parents – Prov. 1-4, 10-11, 20-22
- About God and a relationship with Him – Prov. 4:5-9; Eccl. 12:13-14; 2 Chr. 1:7-12; Matt. 6:33; James 4:7-8
- The necessity of choosing the right path – Prov. 4:10-19; Matt. 7:13-14; Rom. 6:16-17; 1 Thes. 5:21-22; Prov. 4:17-19, 20-27