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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 237

STUDY 237

Text: Proverbs 20
8 January 2006

Dear Parents,

TEACHING CHILDREN HOW TO BE DISCERNING
One of the challenges that we have as parents is that of teaching children how to be discerning. The ability to discern will not come easily. It will take lots of time and practice before this skill is fully mastered.

TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF WEALTH
One of the things that we must seek to teach our children is the ability to distinguish two kinds of wealth. The following text offers good insight on the matter of teaching children how to look at the issue of wealth.

There is gold and a multitude of rubies,
But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

Proverbs 20:15

What are some of the lessons we may teach our children?

1. Clear definitions

We begin with explaining what wealth is. Two positions are suggested. There is material wealth. There is also immaterial wealth.

2. Clear distinctions established

The two types of wealth are clearly presented in this text. Both are seen as valid positions.

a) Material wealth

This is represented by “gold and a multitude of rubies”. Note that there is no suggestion that such wealth is evil.

b) Immaterial wealth

This is represented by the phrase “the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel”. Knowledge is presented as a jewel. If jewels are treasures, then knowledge is to be valued.

3. Avoid extremes

It is wise to avoid extreme positions:

a) Material wealth is to be absolutely shunned.

b) Immaterial wealth is everything.

The challenge is to help children note the two different types of wealth and then to nudge them towards a balanced appreciation of both types of wealth.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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