Train Up a Child

      Christians should understand the importance of raising children in accordance with the teaching of Scripture.  Proper consideration of God’s word on the subject of parenting can result in much long-term good in the lives of our children.  This truth is clearly supported by the teaching of the Proverb writer:  “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it” (22:6).

In this simple statement, parents can find valuable insight into many facets of childrearing.  First, we see the importance of training.  Training is a process that involves instruction in God’s word, encouragement in righteous living, and modeling of behaviors that are consistent with our spiritual profession.  In every endeavor of life, it is understood that training is critical to success.  Parents who want their children to become disciples of Jesus will spend much time engaged in training them.  Children grow up quickly; therefore, we must follow closely Paul’s admonition “making the most of your time” (Ephesians 5:16).  We make the most of our time when we invest it in the spiritual development of our children!

The Proverb also emphasizes that a correct standard of conduct is to serve as the basis of instruction for our children.  Parents are to train up each child in the way he should go.  What is this way?  It is God’s way!  This illustrates the importance of Bible study in the home.  There may be some peripheral benefits to be derived from study of modern psychology and childrearing methods.  However, God has given us “everything pertaining to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3).  This certainly includes how to raise our children!  Parents must study God’s word so that they may themselves be familiar with the proper standard of conduct.  Then, the fruits of this study should be shared with children so that their precious minds gradually become saturated with the truths of Scripture.

      Finally, this simple Proverb stresses the desired outcome of every Christian parent.  That is, that our children become faithful servants of God.  The Proverb writer not only encourages us to train up our children in the ways of God, but assures us that if we do so, “when he is old he will not depart from it.”  Certainly, as with all proverbs, this is a general statement of truth that doesn’t necessarily hold in all cases.  As free moral agents, our children may someday choose to rebel against God – the Bible does not teach the impossibility of apostasy.  Nevertheless, it is encouraging to know that the chances of our children becoming faithful Christians are increased exponentially if we will take it upon ourselves to follow the Bible’s teaching on parenting. 

      Parents, let’s get busy and train up our children to the glory of God!

Mike Waters