Over the next set of six postings, we will deal with a matter that every God-fearing parent or parent-to-be needs to pay attention to.
Psychologists peddle misinformation saying, “children were born “a blank slate” waiting for us to write instructions on them.” Nothing could be more contradictory to the truth. Babies are miniature people “born in sin and shaped in iniquity” (Psalm 51:5).
This heritage of the Lord is a trust given to us to:
- figure out, and
- try to mold spiritually, morally, socially and intellectually.
Understanding the trust and use of this trust, the principal attribute that is in the baby/child, is what we are cautioned not to breach, because it is the bridge to the entrance into the baby’s soul. Once that bridge is broken molding becomes a herculean task (Luke 18:15-17) (please note the duality of a child’s trust, and the necessity of using that to let them know the person of Christ).
And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Matthew 18:3-7
Our moral, social and intellectual lives are part of the molding that can cause them to stumble and for which we will receive judgment or reward.
Going back to our text in Proverbs 22:6, the words “train up” mean “hedge up” or “hedge in” like building a fence around him, and what is used to fence in are Christ the word, and your character as Christ modelled. Teach in a way that fits their needs. This implies imparting information in a consistent and understandable way. Note again Jesus speaking to Peter in John 21 the play of words, lambs and sheep. Why? Know their personality and adopt your method.
Selah
Pastor Afolabi Oladele
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