September 10, 2011

Proverbs 22:1-6 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 22:1-6, Hebrews 5:11-14, Isaiah 22-24

Journal Entry

Scripture

Proverbs 22:6 "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

Observation

The verse 6 seemed like an isolated teaching after I first read it because I was lost in finding out "How" to do this training. Therefore, I read it again and again. Then it became clear that the previous 5 verses contained four parts disciplines of a man's worldview. First, view of oneself. The verse 1 stated "good name" to be regarded higher than "great riches" emphasizing one's integrity over wealth. This seem to put focus on who he is rather than what he has. Second, the relationship with others. The verse 2 stated God is the maker of both rich and poor. The romance of humanity between "have" and "have not" has been the core of human drama for centuries. God sees the heart of a man who has a pity and compassion toward a fellow man who are in need. This verse seem to emphasize the importance of humbling attitude towards each other in the interpersonal relationship. Third, situations and events. The verse 3 brought on a caution on how to conduct oneself in a risky situation in one's life journey. Wisdom and understanding of what is prudent comes from God, and one should ask Him for it. Fourth, relationship with God.The verse 4 stated that being a man of humility and God fearing individual would result in true prosperity. The source of all blessing, God himself is the ultimate.

Application

Training a child in a way he should go is truly a daunting task to say the least. The outcome often seem unpredictable and surprising in humanly expectation. A child has to want to follow the teaching out of his own heart's desire. Pretentious and unsure approach would not be a good thing in training. Honest and compassionate relationship would be a preferred choice. I pray that God would lead my children in His way, and I would be a positive advocate of their upbringing. Being a parent of a child is a blessing. I shall exercise daily coaching as well as blessing on my child with a glad heart.

Prayer

Lord I come to you for wisdom. How and what shall I do to be an instrument of your teaching to my children? You put me as a life-coach to train my child but I lack in knowledge and experience. Please guide me to be an enthusiastic and compassionate trainer. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

--Joshua Kang