Our Parents' Instruction
God designed the family to be one man and one woman joined together in marriage until death parts them. Then, children were to come to complete the family and replenish the earth. This way the children have the opportunity to learn from a father and a mother. This is very important because of the differences between men and women and the ways they raise their kids. I know I was so very blessed to have been born and raised in this type of loving family. I hope you were, too.
The book of Proverbs challenges us to learn wisdom and understanding from God and His Word, like I showed us yesterday from chapter 2. Today, we have the additional admonition to the receive the instruction our parents impart to us. (Proverbs 6:20,21) "My son, obey your father's commands and don't neglect your mother's instruction. Keep their words always in your heart. Tie them around your neck." We need to receive God's commands and wisdom first. Then, we should treasure all of the good things our parents teach us that are in line with God's will.
My father was not a man of many words, but when he spoke what he said was significant. I can remember Dad exhorting me to save my money and to spend it wisely when I did spend it. He was an advocate of buying only what was needed, but when he bought it, he purchased a quality item and took care of it for many years to come. When it broke, he fixed it if possible, so he did not have to buy a new one. He also said, "If you want a church in your community, then attend a church in your community." That is just what we did, too. He also taught me to work. From the time I was about 12 I started cutting grass for people, and I have had a job ever since.
My Mom was a diligent worker who kept our home very clean and cooked the best meals possible. When I had questions about Jesus, she was the one who told me about putting my trust in Jesus. She taught me to do my school work and to behave the right way. Of course, she got Dad involved with that when necessary. However, it was what she said about loving me that stuck with me to this day. She told me, "Nothing you could ever do would cause me not to love you." She meant it, and that is the kind of love I have tried to have for my family all these years.
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Tomorrow, I intend to read Proverbs 8-10.