Instruction

A very simple text this week concerning instruction. Paul is directly addressing the Ephesian men in this line and perhaps all men in general. He warns that men should not exasperate your children. In other words, do not irritate, aggravate or provoke your children.

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I take this to mean do not overly guide your children in the sense that it becomes annoying to them. For example, some fathers may press their child to be involved in a sport they themselves did as a youth. Some fathers may push too hard when in reality their child has little interest in this sport.

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But Paul says rather train your child in the instruction of the Lord. I take this to mean with knowledge, wisdom..etc and a form of spirituality. Fathers play a tremendous role in a child’s development. I believe, in general, children get their wisdom, understanding, morality and a sense of right and wrong from their fathers. Plus more I’m sure. This may not always be the case but it’s the foundation of being a decent and moral being.

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We, as fathers, are suppose to plant these seeds in our children in hopes that they carry them with them throughout their lives…

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One generation plants the tree, while another gets the shade…- Chinese proverb

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Remember, it takes a long time to grow old friends….