April 9 Daily Devotional

Bible Reading

Devotional

The book of Proverbs is a commentary on the Ten Commandments. It instructs both adults and children to serve the Lord in the right manner. Fathers and mothers are to take their young children on their lap, to sit down with their teenage sons and daughters, and to teach and encourage them to walk in the ways of the LORD. More than once the author of Proverbs speaks of “my commandments.” For example, in chapter 3:1-2 he says, “My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.” The instruction of parents is strongly tied to the commands of the Lord. In fact, the very same word is used for “my commands” (referring to parental commands) as we find in the second commandment—“but showing mercy to thousands of those who love Me and keep My commandments.”

The connection is simple and straightforward. The education parents give to their children is to be instruction in God’s commandments. Parents are to teach children that their words and commands are really not their own, but God’s. If parents do not educate their children to know the commandments of the Lord, they are violating the second commandment. Moreover, children are to heed the instruction of their parents. They do not have the liberty to serve the Lord as they see fit. The author of Proverbs impresses upon all of us, “My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother.” (1:8)

From of old the Lord made clear that people receive His instruction by accepting guidance from others. We should never be too proud to learn. Pride and haughtiness obstruct learning and will ultimately bring ruin. “Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (16:18)

Learn to learn, humbly listening to the voice of the Lord; be open to the correction, instruction and teaching of those the Lord has placed over you.