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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 252

STUDY 252

Text: Proverbs 20
23 April 2006

Dear Parents,

AFFLICTIONS OF LIFE
How should we see the painful afflictions that we have to undergo in life? It is hard for children to understand the pain that they have to endure. The following text offers us valuable insight as to how pain may be seen as a good teacher.

Blows that hurt cleanse away evil,
As do stripes the inner depths of the heart.

Proverbs 20:30

1. Cleansing value

There are times when a person may be severely afflicted in life. The text describes these occasions as “blows that hurt”. But these blows are not without value. They can “cleanse away evil”.

2. “The inner depths of the heart”

The word “blow” is also associated with the word “stripe” in this text. Both words suggest that pain is inflicted and felt. But again we must note that these afflictions can help the person deal with the inner depths of the heart.

OTHER IMPORTANT TEXTS THAT TEACH THE SAME TRUTH
The Book of Psalms offers significant insights on the same subject of how afflictions need not be seen as “bad”.

Before I was afflicted I went astray,
But now I keep Your word.

Psalm 119:67

It is good for me that I have been afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes.

Psalm 119:71

I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are right.
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.

Psalm 119:75

PARENTAL CHALLENGES
What are some parental challenges as we look at the above texts? Two may be highlighted:-

1. Help our children not be afraid of afflictions in life

This is of great importance. Children must be taught that there will be difficulties in life. There is nothing to fear.

2. Help children see that good can come out of afflictions

It is of utmost importance that we help children understand that God can help them turn tough situations into victorious ones. Our part is to be there with them.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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