A popular child-rearing proverb teaches fathers: "Train up your children in the way they should go, and when they are old, they will not turn from it." This proverb, well-known in faith communities, provides a mixture of comfort and concern for dads.
First, in a complex and changing culture, it is comforting to have hope for a struggling child during times of rebellion or confusion. Conversely, dads who have not trained their child in the early years of life have anxiety and guilt over lost opportunities. In both cases, the faith of a father is put to the test.
Additional background of the above proverb's original meaning illuminates its use and application for today's fathers. The verbal imperative "train" has other usages in the Hebrew Bible, or Old Testament. It occurs in reference to dedicating a new house or Solomon's temple for sacred use.
The word "child" refers to a status rather than a chronological age. It's various translations include infant, young man, and a cadet who is preparing for military service.
The phrase "in the way he should go" is best understood in a broad, general sense. It means "in the right way," where character and perseverance are more important than a particular vocation or desire.
Click here to continue reading.
SOURCE: Fathers.com
Leave a comment