📖 “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6
🌿Overview
Written by King Solomon, Proverbs offers timeless wisdom on how to live with righteousness, discernment, and integrity. In this verse, Solomon speaks to parents, mentors, and anyone shaping young lives — a call not only to instruct, but to dedicate and guide children in alignment with God’s truth.
The Hebrew word ḥānōḵ (חנך) means to initiate, dedicate, or set apart. It echoes the idea of preparing a child’s heart for their God-given journey, much like dedicating a temple for sacred use. This verse reminds us that true training doesn’t just modify behaviour — it awakens purpose.
🌾Verse-by-Verse Reflection
“Train up a child…” — To train is to nurture through relationship. We are not called to command obedience but to cultivate understanding. Children thrive when their hearts are known.
“…in the way he should go…” — The phrase can also mean according to his way, referring to a child’s unique personality, gifts, and calling. Each one is a masterpiece — fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Our role is to help them discover who they are in Christ, so they can walk confidently in their divine design.
“…and when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Truth planted in love remains, even if it seems buried for a time. God’s Word sown in childhood has a way of finding its way home again.
Reflection:
Who has God entrusted to your care — a child, mentee, or younger believer — whose purpose you can nurture today? 🤔
What qualities or callings can you affirm in them that reflect God’s image? 🤔
How can you model a life rooted in Christ that inspires them to seek Him for themselves? 🤔
Life Application:
Create moments of conversation, prayer, and creativity that invite children (or spiritual sons and daughters) to recognise how deeply they are loved by God. Encourage them to explore their gifts — in art, service, music, or compassion — as ways to glorify Him.
Affirmation:
Even if your own upbringing lacked guidance, God can redeem your story and teach you to parent, mentor, and lead from a healed heart.
Creative Prompt:
Paint or journal an image of a tree with golden roots, representing identity in Christ. Each branch can symbolise a gift or passion that God is growing in the life you’re nurturing.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the precious lives You’ve placed in my care. Help me guide them not by fear or control, but with love, patience, and faith. Show me how to affirm their unique gifts and lead them toward You, the source of all wisdom and purpose. May every seed of truth I plant bear eternal fruit.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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