Parenting By The Book Article

STUDY 212

Proverbs 19

Dear Parents,

PICTURE OF A GOOD FAMILY

There may be dysfunctional families, but there are also good ones! We have an encouraging picture of a good family in the following text:-

"Houses and riches are an inheritance from fathers,
But a prudent wife is from the LORD." Proverbs 19:14

1. Good fathers

Fathers, especially in the ancient days, play a very vital role. They are the bread-winners! Some very good fathers, because of diligence and the Lord's blessings are able to provide well for their children:-

a) "Houses and riches"

Diligent and wise fathers end up possessing "houses and riches."

b) "And inheritance from fathers"

Fathers who truly love their children would be able to leave behind a respectable inheritance to their children!

2. "A prudent wife"

Some texts are better understood when they are compared and contrasted with other passages:-

a) "A prudent wife" contrasted with "a contentious wife"

The contrast is obvious!

b) The prudent wife

i) She will assist her husband in the running of her household!

ii) She will not fail to do whatever is necessary to ensure that her husband succeeds in his work!

3. "Is from the LORD"

This expression highlights the following:-

a) The Lord's hand of involvement

b) The Lord's hand of blessing

c) The Lord's approval of the family's effort to make things work out well!

Prayerfully,

Pastor Charlie