Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 KJV
This is an often quoted proverb. It is used as a promise but would be better taken as a general principle. Parents are responsible to train their children, telling them what is right and showing them through every part of our daily routine (Deuteronomy 6:7). Do not expect a child to learn what is right if you do not demonstrate it through your own life. This training is in the words and the ways of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4 says, “The nurture and admonition of the Lord.” There are many things parents want to teach their children, but the best are the things of the Lord. When taught early and properly, the way of the Lord will serve as a corrective reminder to what is right in their decisions throughout life.
Lord, I have always been grateful for my early training in Your ways. It redirected me when I most needed it. I have sought to do the same with my own children. Help them never depart from it.
