The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom. It’s surprising how one short verse after another is still so relevant to our modern lives! Even though Proverbs was written 3000 years ago, it’s a testament to the living and active nature of Holy Scripture, which has the power to transform our lives now.
I’ve been reflecting on the many bits of wisdom found in scripture regarding parenting. As parents, we have certain expectations for our kids. But when kids balk at our requests, we sometimes can only say, “Because I said so.”
Great reasons may have been passed down through other faithful people. We may not know how or when it began, but many of these things have already been written about.
Though my kids aren’t little any more, all of these apply! I may need to memorize the short verses in Proverbs as I continue on this nothing-like-it journey of parenthood.
Here are a few that I noticed this morning:
Don’t be lazy
Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave. Proverbs 12:24
A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense. Proverbs 12:11
Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper. Proverbs 13:4
Take out the dog
The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel. Proverbs 12:10
Lying is never good
Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. Proverbs 12:19
The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. Proverbs 12:22
Don’t worry about it
Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. Proverbs 12:25
Good morning … wake up!
If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat! Proverbs 20:13
Stay away from temptations
Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. Proverbs 4:14
Don’t eat too much
Have you found honey? Eat only what you need, so that you not have it in excess and vomit it. Proverbs 25:16
Keep good friends
The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. Proverbs 12:26
Cheer up
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength. Proverbs 17:22
Trust in God
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6
Take time to read through these (or a few of them) at dinner tonight! You can also listen to episode #159 on Spotify or Apple.
If you haven’t already, pick up a copy of my parenting ebook here!
