Episode 075 – Everyone’s Unique Path
Key Passage(s): Proverbs 22:6
Most of us have heard the proverb, “Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they won’t depart from it.” It’s a great proverb about teaching kids how to walk out God’s path in life. But there’s another level to understanding this proverb that I believe sheds light on one of the most significant principles for not only parenting our kids extremely well, but in how we love and lead our co-workers, teams, and others we’re called to serve.
Discussion Questions
- What was your biggest takeaway from the teaching?
- It was mentioned a few times that Proverbs are not promises, but are wisdom sayings around how life generally goes. Have you heard this perspective before? What do you think about it?
- How does this new understanding of this Proverb change your perception on this passage? How does it change your attitude toward parenting?
- In your position(s) of leadership, are you practicing this principle of helping everyone walk their own unique path? How could you do this better?
- How will you begin living out the truths of this teaching this week?
For Further Study
- The Wisdom Series by The Bible Project – this will help you better understand the book of Proverbs, as well as the books of Job and Ecclesiastes, and how they must be read and understood in light of one another.
SHARE
Brad, what do you offer parents who maybe/are feeling guilt because their child-as an adult-has turned away from the paths they were shown while growing up?
Yeah, this is so hard, Darryl. I know that as parents we seek to do the best that we can, but as you know, there are no guarantees. I’ve had lots of conversations with parents, and I tell them to continue to pray for their kids and that God would meet them in ways they can’t deny. Keep the lines of conversation open, and continue to love them. Beyond that, there’s not much we can do, but pray for them.
Brad, (finally all caught up and good thing I took notes to reflect back on).
My 8 year old son has ADHD and always wants to learn about God, prays and is a very empathetic young boy. My 12 year old daughter has ADHD but also has a cognitive impairment. She has a beautiful heart but doesn’t always want to learn about God or pray. And sometimes she seems drown to a different side of ghosts, spirits paranormal stuff. How do I direct her, without taking her unique path away, or force her to do what I long for her to do being special needs?
My question is similar to Darryl’s “Brad, what do you offer parents who maybe/are feeling guilt because their child-as an adult-has turned away from the paths they were shown while growing up?”
My children are grown now, and not all of them are walking with the Lord. I tried to lead them to love the Lord, but I never had confidence that I was doing it right. How do I help them to walk their unique path with the Lord?
See my reply to Darryl, Renee.
I really loved this teaching. I treat my two boys differently because they process things differently. I love them the same though. This was something my mom taught me growing up. Thank you for the lessons.
You are most welcome, Donald.