September 1, 2026 -- Proverbs 5:1-2 -- The Seed of Vision Planted

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit’s Power: Sh’ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The seed of vision planted

“My son, be attentive to my wisdom; incline your ear to my understanding, that you may keep discretion, and your lips may guard knowledge.” – Proverbs 5:1-2

Scripture reading: Deuteronomy 6:1-3

The Israelites had been enslaved in Egypt for 400 years. Their sons were drowned in the Nile. The LORD their God rescued them, and guided them even after they’d refused to enter the promised land, a sin which cost the lives of all that generation (except Joshua and Caleb). Now, at the edge of the Promised Land, Moses offers his final teaching before he dies, and Joshua and the new leaders will bring the people into the Land.

The people of God are commanded to teach their sons and grandsons the laws of God daily, so that they may live in a blessed relationship with their covenant-keeping God in the Promised Land. They are to do so because their children are image-bearers of their heavenly King. Parents are given their life’s goal: to teach their children and descendants to know and love God and serve Him. Children taught in this way will be called the children of promise (spoken of in God’s covenant to Abram Genesis 15:1ff). Look at the promises which attend this command. The people will multiply greatly. They will live securely in the land flowing with milk and honey.

Each family is a building block of society. As the families are committed to teaching the way of God to their children, it is expected that the knowledge of the LORD will be the fragrance that wafts from each home, entering the market and the public square and ultimately serving as a powerful witness of the glory of God to all the nations around them.

Suggestions for prayer

If perhaps you find you have been slacking a bit in teaching your children the way of the LORD, it might be a good day to recommit to this. If you are well focused on this, ask the Spirit how you might be an encouragement to others who are struggling.

From devotional: Nearer to God

Richard Vander Vaart is this month’s writer

Theme: Discipleship