Train Up a Child God's Way

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6

This verse is almost always used when the subject of parenthood is discussed, and for good reason. Our actions as parents have long term, even potentially eternal, effects on our children, either for good or for bad. Almost always, this verse is used to encourage parents to train their children in the ways that God commands.  Then, later in life, the children will still be godly. It is certainly true that we should train our children in the ways of God. As those children grow, they will often remain faithful into old age.  However, I believe this verse is also a warning to parents.  The key is the words, "the way he should go".  What are the ways that a child will go if left to himself with no guidance?  He will be foolish, selfish, unkind and lazy.  These things are not just a stage of life that all children go through and then grow out of.  Later in life they may "refine" them and make them appear more respectable to others, but they will still be there.  It is our job as fathers to train up our children in the ways that God would have them to go and not the way our children want to go.

Two Proverbs that say something similar are Proverbs 22:15 and Proverbs 29:15

"Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him." Proverbs 22:15

 A lot can be said about this verse.  All I will say for now is that foolishness is the default position.  If we do nothing, that is what we will get.  We need to take action in order to remove the foolishness from the heart.

"The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother shame." Proverbs 29:15

Do not leave a child to himself!  Use not only the rod, but also reproof.  That takes much more time and effort, but the reward of raising godly children is well worth it.