What does "the way he should go" mean in Proverbs 22:6? Text of the Verse “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) Key Hebrew Ideas Behind the Phrase - “Train up” (ḥānak) – to dedicate, initiate, put on the right course from the start. - “Way” (derek) – a road, path, or manner of life. - “He should go” – literally “his way,” indicating an individual, lifelong path designed by God. What “the way he should go” Means • God-defined, not culture-defined: the path of righteousness revealed in Scripture (Psalm 119:9; Isaiah 35:8). • Lifelong direction: not a temporary hobby but a settled orientation of heart and conduct (Proverbs 4:11 – 12). • In harmony with the child’s God-given design: recognizing unique gifts and callings while steering them toward godliness (Romans 12:6). • Centered on Christ and the gospel: from childhood, Scripture can “make you wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15). • Reinforced by consistent example: parental modeling makes “the way” visible and believable (Philippians 3:17). Practical Implications for Parents and Mentors - Begin early—establish habits of prayer, Scripture reading, worship, obedience. - Teach intentionally—daily conversations rooted in Deuteronomy 6:6-7 rather than random moral tips. - Shape the heart, not just behavior—address motives, desires, and love for God (Proverbs 4:23). - Encourage unique callings—guide each child to steward talents for the Lord (1 Peter 4:10). - Discipline lovingly—Ephesians 6:4 pairs nurture with instruction in the Lord. - Live consistently—children learn more from what we do than what we say (James 1:22). Supporting Scriptures - Proverbs 1:8-9 – parental teaching as a garland of grace. - Psalm 78:5-7 – passing covenant truth to the next generation. - 2 Timothy 1:5 – Timothy’s faith traced to his mother and grandmother. - Joshua 24:15 – a household choosing to serve the Lord. The Promise Embedded in the Verse - General principle: faithful training normally yields lifelong faithfulness; it is not a mechanical guarantee but expresses God’s usual pattern of blessing obedience. - God’s sovereignty and human responsibility meet here: parents sow, God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). Summary “The way he should go” refers to the God-ordained path of righteousness, tailored to each child’s God-given makeup, grounded in Scripture, and guided by consistent, intentional parental discipleship. When children are started on that path early and faithfully, they are far more likely, by God’s grace, to remain on it for life. |
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