This month I am reading through Proverbs and noting everything it has to say about “listening”, and closely related concepts.

It’s insightful that Solomon consistently reminds his son (as do other wise parents in this book – e.g. Proverbs 31:1-9) to pay attention to his teaching, and then do what he says.

Yesterday I noted something of interest and the theme was repeated today. I journaled about this topic both days and today I thought I’d share the journal entry from this morning.

Proverbs 7:1-5 – “My son keep my words… they will keep you from the adulteress, from the wayward wife with her words.” He then pointed to a young man who was seduced by an adulterous woman and said to his own son, “with persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk.”

Words! There is an unrelenting competition of words and ideas… competing for my children’s heads and hearts! I must always be teaching my children well and effectively.

One way to do this is Proverbs 16:21, “…pleasant words promote instruction.”

I must kindly and consistently teach my children about God and life. If I’m not the most persuasive words and influence in their lives, there will be another and that one not so good.”

Parents, our words matter! The content and the consistency of what we say (and do) will save our children a lot of heartache and set them up for success! Of course there is always the matter of free will (i.e. they have the power to choose to ignore what you teach and model), but why not give them every opportunity for success and health?

Your words, what you say and how you say it are unbelievably important!

God help me and us to measure our words and teach with kindness and consistency!