“Hear, my son, your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching; indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head and ornaments about your neck” (Proverbs 1:8–9).
These words headline a groups of verses in the first chapter of Proverbs that discuss the perils of the world in which we live (1:10-14). We are warned to be wary of those who seek to involve us in their evil schemes. We have to be careful because they are good at promoting their exploits. They make it all sound so enticing. “We will find all kinds of precious wealth, we will fill our houses with spoil; throw in your lot with us, we shall all have one purse” (vv. 13-14).
How can we avoid such powerful temptations? By listening to the wise and experienced counsel of godly people who love us and care about our welfare. That is how parents fit into this discussion. When a son (or daughter) hears the siren call of evil enticements, the wise thing to do is to seek out parental advice (or the advice of other experienced people you can trust). Chances are they have faced the same temptations in their own life. Perhaps they can share stories of how they were able to avoid being lured into the same traps. Or maybe they can share the sorrowful price they paid for giving in and following the wrong crowd. Either way, the message will likely be the same: “My son, do not walk in the way with them, keep your feet from their path, for their feet run to evil and they hasten to shed blood” (vv. 15-16).
The silver and gold of ill-gotten gain can’t compare with the adornments worn by those who heed godly instruction. I hope your parents are (or were) the kind of people who steered you away from evil and toward good. And even if they weren’t, I hope you have found someone else who filled the role of a godly counselor. Value such people as the priceless treasure they are!
God loves you!
Mike
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