INFLUENCE OF A PARENT

GUIDANCE
Read Proverbs 3–4

      Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5–6 NKJV

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      The wisest thing that Solomon ever did was to acknowledge his own limitations and ask God for wisdom. There is a reason why Solomon knew he needed to do this: He says, When I was a boy in my father's house, still tender, and an only child of my mother, he taught me and said "Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:3–4a, 7 NIV) Solomon heeded his father David's sound advice, and asked God for a wise and discerning heart, which God was more than happy to give.

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      We cannot overestimate the importance of our influence on our children. Both good and bad kings in the Bible were influenced by their parents. David started teaching a very young Solomon that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of God, and as a result, Solomon started out in the right direction.

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      Lord, I pray for the salvation of each one of our children and grandchildren. Help us to be faithful in teaching them to seek after You, asking for Your guidance in both small and large decisions.

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      Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.  Proverbs 4:10–11 NIV

THE SEARCH FOR WISDOM

HIDDEN TREASURE
Read Proverbs 2; James 1

     –and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure– then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:4–6 NIV

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     Throughout the book of Proverbs, Solomon presents a very important principle echoed in the New Testament: We must seek and ask for wisdom from God, and when He gives it, we must act upon it. 

      James wrote, "Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like." (James 1:23–24)
     The beginning of wisdom is belief that God’s Word is true–but believing is not enough if we don’t carry through and apply it to our lives.

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     Lord, as I open my Bible this morning, I am seeking for hidden treasure. Show me what I need to learn and then empower me to make any changes You require. I lift up my family, my husband and my children. Give me the ability to understand their needs and be ready with a wise and discerning answer. May my thoughts and actions reflect the wisdom mirrored in Your precious Word.

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      If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.    James 1:5 NIV

WORDS OF WISDOM

THE PROVERBS OF SOLOMON
Read Proverbs 1

      The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair– Proverbs 1:1-3 NIV

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      When young King Solomon began to reign, God appeared to him in a dream saying, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” (1 Kings 3:5) Solomon, citing his youth and lack of experience requested, “give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.”(1 Kings 3:9)

      This humble request pleased God because Solomon placed wisdom above wealth and honor. God granted his request and told him, “I will give you what you have not asked for–both riches and honor–so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.” (1 Kings 3:13) Solomon’s wise sayings have been recorded in the book of Proverbs, benefiting generations of believers.

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      Lord, I too acknowledge my need for wisdom. Sometimes the choices are large ones, needing extended prayer and insight, but most are the daily little choices that will add up to a significant direction for our family. I come to You this morning for fresh insight from Your Word.

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      Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance…The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge… Proverbs 1:5,7a NIV