Hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.
Proverbs 1:8
BENEFIT ONE:
Teach your child to “hear” the instruction of the father, the leader/”in charge one”. To hear means to be attentive, gather around, consent, consider.
When a child learns to “hear” the instruction of the leader in their home, they will have an easier time hearing others. When they enter the school house, the work force, or any area of their life; their ears will be able to attend to instruction because it has been trained to “hear”.
A father can best teach a child to hear by:
- Minimizing distractions while instructing a child (distractions for father and child).
- Creating eye to eye contact opportunities with the child.
- Having the child repeat the instruction.
- Discourage arguing by clearly explaining the benefit of adhering to the instruction.
- Give opportunity for the child to ask questions and receive clarification.
BENEFIT TWO:
Teach your child to “forsake not” the law of the mother/the one who meets the most essential needs. To forsake not means to cast off, let fall, leave off, loose,.
A child’s needs will always be cared for when he/she follows the rule of order of the one who is providing the care. As a child holds close the decisions and requirements of the mother in the home, the child will have their needs met. Teaching a child to not leave off the things they are mandated to perform in the home will strengthen their character for the rest of their life.
A mother can best teach a child to “forsake not” by:
- Explaining to the child why it is necessary to do things the way it’s been established for them to be done.
- Be consistent with the conduct required for the child.
- Check the child clearly understands what is expected in their thoughts, words, and actions.
- Discuss consequences of not abiding by the rules that have been set.
Parenting is a difficult task and steadily becoming even more stressful. I encourage you to implement these two beneficial things in what you teach to your child. I believe you will see transformation in your home as you focus on the “heart” needed to accept the rules and adhere to the instructions. When you teach your children to “hear” and “forsake not”, you are teaching them for their life . . . not just to get through today.
Scriptures for further study and encouragement:
Proverbs 4:1-6
Proverbs 31:1-9
Written By: Anne Gurley
