Is it Wise?
Is it Wise?
“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established…” (Prov. 24:3).
In thinking recently about the house being also the school, I thought, “Direct the children to pause and ask ‘Is this wise?’”
Throughout the day children run to us asking, “May I…?” Would training be enhanced if the focus shifted to ask, “Is this wise?” This is beneficial for a person of any age!
Naturally then follows the need to know what is wise. The Scriptures are an excellent source for this instruction. Look at the Proverbs for specific helps.
It is Just So Hard!
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thes 5:16-18).
I am to rejoice, pray, give thanks, always
in all circumstances. Because it is God’s will for me.
The middle one, PRAY, I do fairly efficiently in all circumstances. I usually do remember to praise and thank and I always remember to beg!
But in “rejoice” and “give thanks” I am weaker. Why? What is to be done? You must give your own answers. But here is mine:
Because I fear. Fear that things may not end as I see best. (It was so hard to write this honest statement.)
Now that I have answered “why” I fail at God’s 1 Thessalonians directions, I can better answer what to do. For me to do:
* Repent. I must admit my sin of choosing fear instead of obedience.
* Practice reviewing the promises, such as:
Deut. 31:6: He will never leave us.
Joshua 1:9: Wherever I am, He is.
Psalm 107:28-30: He guided them…
Isaiah 41:8-10: He will strengthen.
Genesis 50:21: He will provide for you.
Deut. 3:22: The Lord fights for me.
Rom. 8:38-39: Nothing separates me from God’s love.
And SO MANY MORE!
* Pray — admit the need. Ask for help. Lean onto Jesus.
* Ask someone to carry my burden with me.
* Start over if I fail. Know that God has this victory in His plan because He empowers where He assigns.
Know this: You are on your way to the Celestial City and you are walking that walk with God’s very own Spirit. You make a powerful pair.
Why Do I Keep Doing This?
Why do I keep on training if no one seems to hear?
Why do I continue to pray for the same things?
Why do I cook meals that no one seems to appreciate?
Why do I teach my children if they seem to dread it so?
Hopefully not ALL of these apply to you and perhaps none of them do, but you likely have other questions of concern. Most of us have moments! I do.
The answer to these questions? Because God told us to. Proverbs 22:6 speaks of training and implies the parents’ role.
* Because with the blessing of children comes responsibility. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 gives us some picture of that responsibility.
* Because we give God joy and delight when we obey. 1 Samuel 15:22 is one Scripture that shows how God cherishes obedience.
So, we will continue to be faithful - day by day to what God has assigned us.
Championship Reminders
“May I help you?” Practice asking and meaning this at every age in the home. When called on to be the servant, you can find opportunity rather than drudgery if through childhood you’ve learned to enjoy offering to help.
Mom, take a day to register your own voice throughout the day. Use your discovery to both praise God and to ask Him for direction in training your children. By the way, this activity helps you understand why you are heard only part of the time.
Share your evidences of God’s goodness and glory. I’ve always struggled with this and I’m trying to do it more. My struggle had been more of my boasting than pointing to God’s goodness. I’m trying to remember to tell God that I want the emphasis and lesson to show His goodness. Then I ask for ability to show that goodness as I report to others the great things he is doing in my family. Praise HIM!
Out of the Pit
First published in 1864, Hesba Stretton’s Out of the Pit introduces us to Stephen who learns to forgive and love in most excruciating circumstances.
In this book we also watch Martha, Stephen’s sister, gain victory as she sees her error in salvation by works.
One of the book’s great lessons is how we learn that when we act wisely or foolishly others are affected. When those we love are affected by our foolishness, great pain comes to all.
I trust you are finding great help in the training of your children as you share these old, old stories.
Out of the Pit is available at:
Lamplighter Ministries
Reformation Heritage
Thrift Books
Amazon
Walmart
Enjoy reading together!