What lessons can parents learn from Deuteronomy 1:39 about guiding children? The Verse in Focus “And the little ones whom you said would become plunder — your sons who do not yet know good and evil — they will enter there, and to them I will give it, and they will possess it.” (Deuteronomy 1:39) Key Observations • God distinguishes between the unbelieving adults and their children. • He acknowledges the children’s moral innocence: “do not yet know good and evil.” • God promises the children the very inheritance their parents forfeited. Lessons for Parents 1. Innocence Needs Guidance • Children begin without a clear grasp of right and wrong. • Parents are called to shape that understanding before the world does (Proverbs 22:6). 2. Our Choices Affect Them • Israel’s rebellion sentenced the adults to the wilderness, but the children still felt the forty-year fallout. • Present-day disobedience can delay or complicate a child’s spiritual growth (Psalm 78:7-8). 3. God’s Grace Covers Their Future • Though parents failed, God still had a promised land for the youngsters. • He works redemptively through imperfect families (Romans 5:20). 4. Children Are Heirs, Not Afterthoughts • The Lord addressed the children’s destiny specifically, highlighting their value. • Jesus later echoed this priority: “Let the little children come to Me” (Mark 10:14). 5. Parental Responsibility Is Non-Transferable • God held each generation accountable for its own response. • Fathers are urged, “bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Practical Steps for Guiding Children • Teach Scripture Daily – Integrate God’s Word “when you sit in your house… walk by the way… lie down… rise up” (Deuteronomy 6:7). • Model Obedience – Live the commands visibly; children read lives before they read Bibles. • Confess and Correct Quickly – When you fail, admit it. Repentance teaches more than perfection. • Pray Over Their Calling – Ask God to lead them into the “land” He has prepared — their unique purpose in Christ. • Guard Their Environment – Filter influences until they can discern good from evil on their own (Matthew 18:6). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Joshua 14:9 — Caleb’s offspring shared in the inheritance secured by faith. • Proverbs 14:26 — “The fear of the LORD” in a parent creates “strong confidence, and His children will have a place of refuge.” • Isaiah 54:13 — “All your children will be taught by the LORD, and great will be their peace.” God’s promise in Deuteronomy 1:39 reminds every parent that while children start out unaware of moral boundaries, they are precious heirs entrusted to us. Teach them, walk faithfully, and anticipate the “promised land” God has for their lives. |
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