By Jamie Trisler

King Solomon and his wife knew how to parent their son to have a virtuous character. For Solomon said this:

Hear, my son, your father’s instruction,
and forsake not your mother’s teaching,
for they are a graceful garland for your head
and pendants for your neck.
My son, if sinners entice you,
do not consent (Proverbs 1:8-10).

When children exhibit such things as ongoing disobedience, lack of respect for others, and laziness; there is something missing in their lives. Often it is parents who are not following the example of King Solomon and his wife. Parents are to impart direction on such things as knowing the Word of God, the importance of being obedient, the right heart attitudes when interacting with others, and the necessity of developing strong work habits. Dads and Moms also have the pressing responsibility to warn their children of temptations by evil doers. Solomon gave such a warning to his son (Proverbs 1:10-19). Personal example should accompany parental enlightenment and counsel.

Godly parenting does not guarantee that children will follow their parents’ instructions or footsteps. Look again at verse eight and the opening directive “Hear my son.” Children have to make a choice to listen and act upon their parental teachings, guidance and examples. Many godly parents have had painful experiences of children choosing the ways of wicked men. God does not hold dads and moms accountable for their children’s choices. He does hold them responsible for their parenting.