Guiding children early in the right way builds a foundation that lasts.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
What does “Train up” mean in Proverbs 22:6?
The proverb speaks of training a child according to his or her own way, meaning with attention to how each child is made. It offers a general principle, not a rule that holds in every case.
Going deeper
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Training is more than telling. It includes example, repetition, patience, and love. Proverbs are general truths, not promises that every child will turn out perfectly. But the principle is wise: what we build into children early tends to last. Habits of faith, honesty, and kindness formed in youth can be the foundation for a lifetime.
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, teacher, or neighbor, you may have a role in training a young person. Think about what you are modeling. Children learn far more from what they see than what they hear. Choose one habit you would like to pass on, perhaps thankfulness, prayer, or kindness, and practice it in front of them. And if you carry regret about how you raised your children, entrust them to God, who loves them more than you do.
Reflect
What habit could you model this week for a child or young person in your life?
Pray
Lord, help me to train up the young in the way they should go. Let my life be an example, and watch over the children I love. In Jesus' name, amen.
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