In what ways can parents prevent "grief" and "bitterness" mentioned in Proverbs 17:25? Grief and Bitterness in View “A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to the mother who bore him.” – Proverbs 17:25 The Goal: Raising Children Who Bring Delight, Not Heartache “Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will bring delight to your soul.” – Proverbs 29:17 Build on Scripture Every Day • Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – keep God’s words “upon your hearts… teach them diligently to your children.” • Read the Bible together, let children hear it, see it lived, and discuss it naturally at meals, in the car, at bedtime. • 2 Timothy 3:15 – early exposure to Scripture “makes you wise for salvation.” Wisdom counteracts foolishness. Model the Life You Want Imitated • Children watch more than they listen; consistent godliness at home shapes their conscience. • Philippians 4:9 – “practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” • Humility, repentance, forgiveness, joy, service—demonstrated, not just demanded. Exercise Loving, Consistent Discipline • Proverbs 13:24 – “he who loves him disciplines him diligently.” • Hebrews 12:11 – discipline feels painful now “but later… yields a harvest of righteousness and peace.” • Clear boundaries, swift consequences, restoration after discipline, never in anger. • Ephesians 6:4 – avoid provoking; correct with purpose and instruction. Pursue Their Hearts, Not Just Their Behavior • Regular one-on-one time—meals out, shared projects, bedtime talks—builds trust. • Express affection in words and actions; affirm identity and worth. • Colossians 3:21 – “Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged.” Guard Influences and Environment • 1 Corinthians 15:33 – “Bad company corrupts good character.” Monitor friendships, media, online presence. • Provide opportunities for wholesome friendships, church fellowship, and service. Teach Responsibility and Work Ethic • Give age-appropriate chores; link privileges to faithfulness. • Proverbs 14:23 – “All hard work brings profit.” Industrious children rarely grow into habitual foolishness. Encourage Respect for Authority • Honor for parents (Exodus 20:12) extends to teachers, elders, civil leaders. • Demonstrate respectful speech yourself; correct disrespect swiftly. Pray Continually for Them • Philippians 4:6 – “in everything, by prayer and petition… present your requests to God.” • Pray aloud with and privately for your children’s salvation, wisdom, protection, future spouses, and ministries. Stay Engaged in a Local Church • Hebrews 10:24-25 – stimulate one another “to love and good deeds… not neglecting to meet together.” • Corporate worship, multigenerational fellowship, and faithful preaching reinforce what parents teach at home. Live with Hope and Perseverance • Galatians 6:9 – “let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not give up.” • Parents who sow Scripture-saturated love, discipline, and example can trust God for the harvest of wise, joyful children who spare them grief and bitterness. |
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