The role of parents in the life of the young - Proverbs 1:8-9

One of the characteristics of some TV shows and movies in our days is to depict parents as an unwelcome part of our lives. It is common to see kids trying to do things behind their parents back, telling them lies and challenging their authority. And in addition this is all done with tone of something normal, common, even expected. On the other hand, the Scriptures are filled with the idea of the authority and importance of our parents. Remember that there is a commandment exclusively dedicate to them and that our lord Jesus Christ himself demonstrated a particular interest and care for his earthly mother while at the cross.

My dear young reader, in these two verses of the book of Proverbs, Solomon gives you important principles to guide your relationship with your parents. The first one is the principle of equality. Observe that in verse 8, he used two words with the same meaning regarding what you are to do toward both your father and mother. Since these words are equal, no matter where the instruction or teaching is coming from (either from you father or mother), you are to consider them with the same authority and treat both of them with the same respect.

The second principle is that of the parents’ role. They are to instruct you and you are to hear their instruction and not forsaken them. In other words, expect your parents to correct you when they think you wrong. That is their role in your life. In our days, parental instruction is taken as an inconvenience, even as a lack of respect or invasion of space. All this ideas are contrary to the teaching of your God. It is because of His own design for a family that your parents take the time and make the great effort to instruct you in all areas. Your role, according to Solomon, is that of listening! Now, observe that he expands on that, you are to listen in such a way you will neither forget not neglect the instruction. That is the idea of the expression do not forsake.

The third principle is that of the value of your parent’s instruction. Solomon carries on his argument explaining why you should listen carefully to your parent’s teachings and not forsake them. He affirms that they are extremely valuable! They are compared to the golden crowns that are put on the heads of kings and queen. In a modern perspective, they are like the crown given to the prom queen, or like a football helmet made of gold! That is how important and valuable there are. Don’t you want to wear them?

Therefore, my young brother and sister, honor thy father and mother so that your days on earth may be long and prosperous. Give them the place of honor they deserve in your life, consider carefully their teachings and directions and never be ashamed of them. For if you do not honor you earthly parents who you can see, how are going to honor you heavenly Father who you do not see?

How much knowledge did you acquire this year?

Now that summer is coming and that your term at school is coming to an end you should be asking yourself: what did I learn during this whole year? What knowledge did I acquire? Well, I am sure that you know now much more of math, science, grammar, history and other subjects than you knew last year (at least, I hope you do!). There is yet another kind of knowledge that should have increased in your mind and heart this year and that is the knowledge of your triune God. Did you learn more about Him this year?

Let me remind you that Christians should always be interested in learning about God, His will and His directions for our lives while we wait for the return of our savior Jesus. The best proof of this is that He has given you a complete library so that you would meditate upon it day and night: the Holy Bible. And that is not all! Among the 66 books of the Bible, your God gave you one which specific purpose is to give you wisdom and it is the book of Proverbs.

How do I know this book was written especially for you, my young brother and sister? Because it is written in the very first chapter! In verse 4 we read: “to give prudence to the naive, to the youth knowledge and discretion.” Therefore, young brethren, this book is of great importance for you. Yes, the Lord wants you to grow your wisdom in the most different subjects but most of all He wants you to be instructed in “righteousness, justice and equity.” You don’t learn that in your school (private, public or home). You need to come and learn from Him,

Now, why should you come and learn from God all this marvelous things? Because in doing so, you are being wise and not a fool. The book of Proverbs invites the wise to increase his learning by listening to its words of wisdom (1:5). It promises that through the understanding of its content the reader will receive guidance. On the other hand, the one who rejects its wise teachings and instructions is nothing but a fool (1:7). You don’t want to be a fool, do you?

Now, in order to understand and profit from the wisdom of the book of Proverbs, what should be your starting point? The book itself responds to you saying: “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” When you approach your God seeking for guidance, do so in holy fear. Does this mean that you should be afraid of God? Absolutely not! The fear of the Lord is that profound respect, awe and recognition that you must demonstrate when you approach your creator, recognizing your infinite necessity of his instruction, guidance, love and mercy.

Let us, than, return to the initial question: how much did you increase you knowledge about God this year? Do you wish to be wise? Do you understand the Lord alone is your true source of wisdom? Seek this knowledge, young brethren. Do be a fool!