“Mr. Davis, as Taylor grew older, what were some things you looked forward to doing with him?”
This was one of several questions I was asked in a seventh grade Bible class at Taylor’s school this week. A while back, I called our son as he was driving back from a game with a fellow coach. We just had a normal conversation, but overhearing it, the coach decided to invite us to his Bible class to be an illustration of ‘generational wisdom.’
The class has been studying the Proverbs, and while I don’t claim to have a great deal of wisdom, the Scripture is full of it. Solomon often wrote about fathers and sons. “The glory of a young man is his strength; the gray hair of the old is his splendor.” (Proverbs 20:29) As Taylor and I told stories and answered questions, I thanked God for His goodness.
“Coach Davis, as your children grow older, what are some of the things you look forward to?”
Our answers to questions were often similar. Many years ago, I enjoyed coming home from work and playing various games with the kids. I enjoyed taking them fishing and going on trips. Wilkes is now at the age where he loves to play and Taylor loves it. Cars, superheroes, ball, rocks, sticks… everything is fun.
But what is most important for a child? Don’t we as parents want our kids to know our Heavenly Father? However close I feel I am to God, I want my children to be closer. He is our Source of life. He is our fortress. He is our hope.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) As parents, we can pray our children follow this wisdom as we daily put it into practice in our own lives. And God will prove Himself faithful… for He is the perfect Father.
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10
“He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.” Proverbs 14:26
“For the Lord gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6