Proverbs 4:1–4: Hear, my children, the instruction of a father, and give attention to know understanding; For I give you good doctrine: Do not forsake my law. When I was my father’s son, tender and the only one in the sight of my mother, He also taught me, and said to me: “Let your heart retain my words; Keep my commands, and live.
Insight
Solomon wrote this, and he is talking about his own father. David probably gave him a great deal of advice. When Solomon was made king, David said to him, “Play the man!” I think he said that because he felt that Solomon was not manly. He said, “Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.” David had learned by experience that you had better obey the Lord. 1
Application
The best way to teach your children, is first to be a student of the Word. Learn from the best. Let the Word of God instruct you and let the Spirit of God lead you. Many times your instruction is caught before it is taught. Live out His truths in your home. May your children see your love for God and your obedience to God. Do not export, what has not been imported. First receive from God, then teach your children.
Motivation
If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. John 15:10
The best teachers should be the man and the woman who brought you into this world. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, please teach all the dads how to be a father like You.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: Poetry (Proverbs) (electronic ed., Vol. 20). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
