I introduced Proverbs 4 in an earlier devotional with the observation that this chapter affords us a unique opportunity to study words of wisdom Solomon received from his father, King David (Proverbs 4:3-4). It is difficult to determine where David’s proverbs end and Solomon’s begins; however, we do know that we are reading the instructions of a father whom God described as “a man after his own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22).
Our study today is Proverbs 4:7-9.
Proverbs 4:7 – “Wisdom [good sense; prudence] is the principal thing [best; most important]; therefore get [acquire] wisdom: and with all thy getting [acquisitions] get understanding [insight; discernment; ability to judge].”
Proverbs 4:8 – “Exalt her [esteem wisdom highly], and she shall promote [exalt] thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her [embrace; show fondness].”
Proverbs 4:9 – “She [wisdom] shall give [deliver; bring] to thine head an ornament of grace [favor; kindness]: a crown of glory [beauty; distinction] shall she deliver to thee [rescue; shield; defend].”
Until the 20th century, the United States was an agrarian society with the majority of Americans living in rural areas. Parents were the primary influence in their children’s 
lives, directing not only their education, but also shaping their character. Multiple generations lived on family homesteads and the values instilled in America’s youth were fundamentally Bible-based.
We are no longer that nation! Several factors have brought the United States to the point of spiritual and moral collapse, among them: the industrialization of the 20th century necessitating families moving to urban areas; dissemination of European liberal theology in denominational churches, colleges and seminaries; the “theory of evolution” coupled with a liberal dogma of public school indoctrination and mass media [radio, television, internet]. Parental guidance and influence has waned and been surpassed by the influence of peer pressure, pop culture and so-called “progressive liberals” who dominate government posts, education, media and entertainment (1 Corinthians 15:33).
I cannot overstate the secularists influences permeating 21st century American culture and influencing our youth. There is a war for the soul of our children and the necessity for parents to spiritually guide, instruct and train their children is paramount! The model for instructing sons and daughters is found in Proverbs 4 where King David challenged his son Solomon who then challenged his son to Get the Wisdom of God. Godly wisdom is the most important thing you can impart to your child!
Proverbs 4:7 – “Wisdom [good sense; prudence] is the principal thing [best; most important]; therefore get [acquire] wisdom: and with all thy getting [acquisitions] get understanding [insight; discernment; ability to judge].”
I cannot be excessive in challenging moms and dads to get back to parenting and modeling godliness. Your children must hear and see in your example the importance you place on spiritual truths. Dad, the kids need to see you read your Bible and go to a church that teaches and preaches unapologetically the fundamental doctrines of the Bible. 
Mom, your little ones need to see you reading your Bible and hear you read them Bible stories that teach Bible principles. It is foolhardy to think that going to church on Sunday morning alone will instill truths and moral values in your children when they are facing secularists who are militantly opposed to moral values and the free exercise of your faith and convictions.
Finally, if you are going to a church that does not teach the whole counsel of God’s Word, is worldly in its values and focused on being “politically correct” at the sacrifice of being Biblically sound–it is time to look for a Bible preaching church!
Copyright 2015 – Travis D. Smith
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