March 10, 2026 -- Proverbs 5:1 -- Instructing children in the faith

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My son, be attentive to my wisdom
Proverbs 5:1a ESV
 
Be honest, how often does your attention wander when you should be listening closely to the word of God? It is so easy to take meandering mental detours when we should be listening closely. Recently I drove from Ontario to New Brunswick. While driving I had a wonderful chance to listen to many teaching podcasts. I listened to a pair of sermons given by the late Tim Keller. Keller noted that Christians must grow from childhood to maturity in the faith. The Proverbs address the listener as “my son”. There are instructions which apply to youth, to men, and to those who are mature seniors in the faith.
 
Consider youthful enthusiasm and the Christian faith. “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” I John 2:1. Children are impulsive. They need ready instruction in confession and forgiveness. They are restless. Their emotions are not governed, as with those who are maturing in the fruit of the Spirit and walking with self-control. Little wonder then that so many proverbs start with “O sons” or “my son”; it is as if a faithful, godly parent needs to regain the attention of his little listener who is straying.
 
The son must be attentive—it is a command. (Again, the command to be attentive is an instruction that is frequently used, ie: Proverbs 4:1, 20, and now here 5:1). Little ones have short attention spans. Are likely to wander in their thoughts. They see something that catches the eye and they’re ready to get up mid conversation and follow their impulses. To mature in the faith requires persistent, godly teaching. To mature in the faith, one must also govern his mind, thoughts, and actions. Those who persist in fighting their willful rebellion against God will find delight in Him.
 
Father in heaven, blessed be Your Name!
Thank You for the patient, godly, instructors who persist in leading young Christians in the way of righteousness.
Father, Source of All Good, thank You for those who are young in the faith, hungry to learn and excited in knowing more about You.
Glorious God, thank You for the gift of Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Spirit of God, quell the rising emotive interruptions that would disturb learning; and give great calmness to those who are leading young Christians in the way everlasting.
Triune God, let little ones grow and mature in Christ; young men grow and mature in their ability to fight the tempter’s power, and fathers and mothers in the faith reflect their ever-deepening knowledge of God to those around them so that those who follow in their steps may be discipled in Christ. Amen.
 
https://youtu.be/KU5ct0iY-Ds?si=kVGrFbOggsgopyol Am I Soldier of the Cross
 

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