What impact does a wise son have on his parents' emotional well-being? Setting the Scripture Scene “The proverbs of Solomon: ‘A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.’” (Proverbs 10:1) What “Wise” Means in Proverbs • Fears the LORD (Proverbs 1:7) • Listens to instruction (Proverbs 8:33) • Walks in righteousness (Proverbs 13:6) • Seeks counsel from God’s Word (Psalm 119:24) A Wise Child’s Emotional Impact on Parents 1. Joy that fills the heart • “A wise son brings joy to his father” (Proverbs 10:1) • Parallel thought: “A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother” (Proverbs 15:20) 2. Peace that quiets anxiety • “Sensible children bring joy to their father” (Proverbs 17:21, adapted from), relieving worry about future direction 3. Pride that honors the family name • “The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will delight in him” (Proverbs 23:24) 4. Hope that tomorrow will be blessed • Parents see God’s promises advancing into the next generation (Psalm 103:17-18) 5. Refreshment that eases life’s burdens • “3 John 4: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” Walking in truth revives weary parents. Contrasting Effect of Folly • Grief (Proverbs 10:1) • Bitterness (Proverbs 17:25) • Shame (Proverbs 29:15) Ripple Effects Beyond Mom and Dad • Strengthens the household testimony in the community (Matthew 5:16) • Builds a legacy of faith that blesses grandchildren (Proverbs 13:22) • Encourages church fellowship as others witness godly offspring (Psalm 145:4) Living It Out Today • Cultivate reverence for God daily—parents feel secure when they see their children anchored in truth. • Welcome parental counsel—wise sons and daughters turn advice into action, and parents sense their influence matters. • Prioritize righteousness over achievement—nothing thrills parents more than character shaped by Scripture. |
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