How can parents "train up a child" according to Proverbs 22:6 today? Setting the Standard “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) • “Train” is deliberate, hands-on guidance, not passive observation. • “The way” points to God’s path revealed in Scripture, not merely good manners or career success. • “He will not depart” holds out a trustworthy pattern: a lifetime trajectory shaped by early formation. Start With Your Own Walk • Children read parents before they read the Bible. • Paul urged, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1) • Repent quickly, forgive freely, worship sincerely—let your life preach. Saturate the Home With Scripture • Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “These words… are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children…” • Post verses on walls, quote them at meals, sing them in the car. • Help kids memorize age-appropriate passages; connect every life-situation back to God’s Word. Teach the Gospel Early and Often • 2 Timothy 3:15: “From infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” • Explain sin, substitution, and grace with clarity a child can grasp. • Celebrate repentance and faith; keep the cross central. Discipline That Disciples • Hebrews 12:10-11: “He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness.” • Distinguish between childishness and rebellion. • Use consistent, measured correction aimed at heart change, followed by assurance of love. Daily Rhythms That Reinforce Truth Morning: Brief family Scripture reading and prayer. Meal Times: Share “God sightings” and answered prayers. Bedtime: Bless each child with a spoken Scripture promise (Numbers 6:24-26). Weekly: Lord’s Day worship, serving together, rest that honors God. Guard Their Influences • 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Monitor media, friendships, and digital footprints. • Provide enriching alternatives: books, music, and mentors that echo biblical values. Cultivate a Love for the Church • Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together…” • Involve children in multi-generational fellowship—service projects, prayer meetings, missionary stories. • Let them see imperfect believers living out forgiveness and unity. Model Work and Stewardship • Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord…” • Assign chores early; tie effort to serving God and others, not merely earning allowance. • Teach giving: firstfruits to God, generosity to the needy, wise saving. Keep an Eternal Perspective • Psalm 78:4: “We will not hide them from their children, but will proclaim… the praiseworthy acts of the LORD…” • Celebrate spiritual milestones—baptism, first communion, answered prayers—more than academic or athletic awards. • Remind them that life’s purpose is to know Christ and make Him known. Persevere in Hope • Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” • Training up a child is a marathon. Progress may feel slow, but God’s promise stands: seeds sown in faith will bear fruit in His timing. |
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