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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 207

STUDY 207

Text: Proverbs 19
12 June 2005

Dear Parents,

CHOOSING AN APPROPRIATE APPROACH
Children are so different, one from the other! There isn’t one single approach that will work with all children. It takes much wisdom and experience to choose an appropriate approach to guide children!

TRY CANDIDNESS
The following proverb suggests “a candid approach” as a valid way of teaching children.

A false witness will not go unpunished,
And he who speaks lies shall perish.

Proverbs 19:9

1. Dealing with the problem of “telling lies”

Children pick up the habit of telling lies very easily! Even little toddlers can tell lies if they feel they can get away with telling whoppers! If the problem of telling lies is not dealt with effectively, lying can follow the child right into adulthood!

2. Do not preclude any approach

Many methods may be attempted. Many have been tried out. There are always advocates of one or more methods of dealing with children. The following are some of the methods attempted.

a) Encouragement

b) Openness

c) Promise of understanding

While there is merit in these approaches, we cannot preclude the addition of one more approach – the direct and candid way of teaching!

TALK DIRECTLY ABOUT CONSEQUENCES
Sometimes, children learn better when they look at things from the perspective of “consequences.” In the instance of lying, two grave consequences are highlighted:-

1. “Will not go unpunished”

2. “He shall perish”

Those are grim consequences indeed. Can children comprehend these thoughts? YES! Most assuredly! Let’s spare no effort seeking ways and means to guide children.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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