According to a study conducted by a local newspaper in Singapore, 97 out of 100 students polled have private tutors or receive supplemental training at academic centers. So common are these practices that Singapore has been called the “tuition nation.”
Academic education is important, but I wonder, Is equal—if not greater—attention given to instructing our children to become men and women of high moral character? People imbued with a clear purpose and mission in life?
In Deuteronomy 11, we’re reminded that God is interested in our children’s education (Deuteronomy 11:18-19). He wants us to teach them His Word, ways, and values. In Psalm 78:7-8, we’re told the purpose of this instruction. It’s so that “each generation [will] set its hope anew on God, not forgetting His glorious miracles and obeying His commands. Then they will not be like their ancestors—stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful, refusing to give their hearts to God.”
And God is the best teacher with the best lesson plan for us to follow. First, we teach by example. Parents must “commit [themselves] wholeheartedly to these words” of God (Deuteronomy 11:18). He states, “Lay up these words of Mine in your heart and soul” (ESV). Yes, God’s Word must personally shape our heart, mind, and will. Second, the place of education is not in the classroom, but in the situations of life (Deuteronomy 11:19-20). So it’s good for us to ask: Are we seizing opportunities to turn life experiences into teaching moments? Are we freeing up the quality time that’s required?
Whether you’re a parent or perhaps—like me—you’re an aunt (or uncle) to some precious children, let’s take their education seriously. We must instruct them to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with [their] God” (Micah 6:8 NIV).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Acts 27:27-44
More:
Read Proverbs 4 to see a father’s wise instructions to his son.
Next:
How are you investing in the moral formation of children in your family? What other children could you instruct in the wisdom of God’s Word— perhaps those in your Sunday school or in your neighborhood?
roxanne robbins on November 17, 2011 at 1:22 am
I saw a study the other day that showed how likely children are to model their parents’ eating habits. I want to be more conscience about the example I set in that area and, even more so, in the disciplines I live out as a follower of Christ.
pohfangchia on November 17, 2011 at 1:06 pm
I’m currently in the United States for six weeks and I’m staying with a family that has eight children. I pray that as we play, eat and do things together, some Christian values will rub off to them, and that through me, they will understand to some degree how much God loves them.
bearpair on November 17, 2011 at 1:48 pm
Excellent! What a marvelous word picture comparing the world-wise education methods with God’s specific imperatives to us as parents & educators. Having spent much of our lives both as parents & teachers, we loudly & strongly shout “Amen” to the things you have highlighted! T & P/Everett, WA
GChoo on November 19, 2011 at 9:03 am
Thanks Poh Fang. I totally agree with you to educate children in all areas of their lives not only academically.
How wonderful for us as christians to have God’s Word to guide us to be wise parents and uncles/aunts. God shown us the way not only through words but in His actions. Therefore we need to remember to educate those young ones not only in words but by our ways to live a life worthy of God.
winn collier on November 19, 2011 at 10:29 am
good words. this is the prime call of our place with our kids, to help them become the people God has in mind for them to be.