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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 193

STUDY 193

Text: Proverbs 18
6 March 2005

Dear Parents,

BOMB SHELTERS
In newly built HDB apartments, there is provision of a room that is supposed to function as a “bomb shelter.” That is an interesting concept. It is reflective and indicative of how the builders have factored in a special safety-feature. The room is meant to be a refuge for the family should there be war.

WHAT ARE WE TEACHING OUR CHILDREN ABOUT “SHELTERS?”
How do we prepare to face unexpected crises? What would we consider “a safe refuge?” We have an interesting comparison between two places of refuge.

The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
The righteous runs to it and are safe.
The rich man’s wealth is his strong city,
And like a high wall in his own esteem.

Proverbs 18:10-11

1. For the Righteous – The Lord is his Shelter

The righteous always make sure that the LORD Himself is their refuge. He is their tower of strength. In times of trouble, the righteous find true safety in the name of the Lord.

2. For the Rich Man – His wealth is his shelter

The contrast is obvious. The rich man trusts in no one except himself and the wealth that he has amassed. In his own esteem, his wealth provides him all the safety and refuge he needs in his life.

A RELATED QUESTION
Why do some turn to the Lord? Why do some turn away from the Lord and trust in their riches? The following text may well answer this question.

Before destruction the heart of a man is haughty,
And before honour is humility.

Proverbs 18:12

1. Haughtiness

Those who are “successful” in amassing great wealth tend to be haughty. They feel that they are “great” because of the wealth they possess. In the end, they may well end up with destruction!

2. Humility

On the other hand, the righteous (possibly “poor”) feel that they need the Lord’s grace and mercy in everything. The humility of spirit is pleasing to the Lord and in the end they are honoured!

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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