In what ways can parents avoid being "a foolish son" to their children? Setting the Scene Proverbs repeatedly contrasts a wise son with a foolish one. Proverbs 17:25 states, “A foolish son is grief to his father and bitterness to her who bore him.” While the verse speaks of children, parents, too, can act in ways that mirror the grief-bringing folly described. The goal is to parent so wisely and righteously that our children never have to bear the sorrow that a foolish son brings. What Scripture Says about “Foolishness” • Proverbs 1:7, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” • Proverbs 15:5, “A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction is prudent.” • Proverbs 19:13, “A foolish son is ruin to his father…” A fool, biblically, is someone who resists God’s authority, ignores instruction, and refuses correction. If parents live that way, they model destructive folly for their children and become a burden rather than a blessing. Turning the Lens toward Parents Parents can unintentionally resemble the “foolish son” when they… • dismiss God’s Word in daily decisions • refuse wise counsel or accountability • react impulsively in anger or pride • squander resources through undisciplined living • belittle or discourage their children Practical Ways Parents Can Avoid Foolishness 1. Cultivate Reverence for the Lord • Proverbs 3:5-6—trusting the Lord wholeheartedly guides every parenting choice. • Make Scripture reading and church involvement non-negotiable family rhythms. 2. Welcome Correction and Grow • Proverbs 12:1, “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” • Invite feedback from spouse, children, and trusted believers; adjust humbly. 3. Speak with Patience and Grace • James 1:19, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Replace harsh words with life-giving encouragement (Ephesians 4:29). 4. Model Financial and Moral Integrity • Proverbs 13:11 warns against quick, dishonest gain. • Budget wisely, give generously, and confess sin promptly so children see integrity in action. 5. Provide Consistent Discipline • Proverbs 13:24, “He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently.” • Discipline should be loving, clear, and consistent, never retaliatory. 6. Protect Their Hearts from Discouragement • Colossians 3:21, “Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged.” • Celebrate progress, express affection, and apologize when wrong. 7. Pray with and for Them • Philippians 4:6-7—prayer anchors the home in God’s peace. • Let children hear you lifting their needs and your own shortcomings to the Lord. 8. Live the Gospel Daily • Titus 2:7, “In everything, show yourself to be an example of good works.” • Demonstrate repentance and forgiveness; keep short accounts within the family. Result: From Grief-Bearer to Joy-Giver When parents embrace godly wisdom, they reverse the pattern described in Proverbs 17:25. Instead of inflicting grief, they become a source of joy and security, mirroring the Heavenly Father’s heart and guiding their children toward true wisdom. |
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