The Proverbs Papa was all about some needed advice from a father to his son. The beginning of the book talks about wisdom and the importance of it then turns lovingly to a son with "instruction of a father and not to forsake the mother's teaching." Here are some of the main themes of Proverbs from a father to his son/daughter.
- Honor the parenting team (prov. 1:8)
The parenting team give children a sense of security, support and comfort. If you want to give the best for your children, show them a strong love and support for your wife and what she means to the family. We know the writers of Proverbs give great support to the woman in the home because the last chapter in the book honors her as no other chapter in the bible does. If children know that dad honors and supports their mother, he is setting an example for the family and leading it well.
- Know friendships of your children and warn of harm (prov. 1:10-19)
These few verses in Proverbs are packed with information about friendships. It is a huge warning about power and control, some who take advantage of others, business dealings that go wrong and the pain of these relationships in that they hurt themselves in the end. It is important for us to know our kids and their friends because we know the strengths and weaknesses of our own children. We can tell when they need help. They can and will be strong in decisions about friendships if we take the time and have patience with them.
- Warn of immorality and the path it takes (prov. 5,6&7)
Too many times our kids do not hear sound advice about relationships. It is an uncomfortable subject to sit down and discuss sex, immorality and a "path that leads to destruction." Proverbs gives so much great advice about staying away from adultery, noticing the simple lure that draws our hearts away, the temptation of an opportunity when no one else is around and the sin of our own hearts. If a father can help his children through these tough temptations, a solid husband/wife will emerge. We are raising a generation with value and faithfulness.
- Follow wisdom and forsake foolishness (prov. 3.4&5)
The underlying theme of the entire book is the search for wisdom. Solomon points out that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." It continues to show how to gain and maintain that sense of wisdom by "trusting in the Lord with all our hearts" and searching for wisdom a "fine gold or treasure." It is incredible how this needs to be instructed AND MODELED. As men, we can make a difference for the next generation by seeking wisdom and following after God ourselves.
The themes of Proverbs go on and there is more that can be said but these are a great start for the Proverbs Papa who wants to make a difference in their childrens' lives.
