It is interesting how life’s circumstances change our perspective of Scripture. Not that Scripture changes, but we do, in my case from singleness to marriage, moving from my father’s family to creating my own.

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
They are a garland to grace your head
and a chain to adorn your neck.
— Proverbs 1:8-9

I read these verses now in a new light, not forgetting my parents in this at all, but recognising the future prospects and responsibilities that I may carry. It is no small matter for a child to pay attention to their parents’ instructions, the instruction needs to be full of wisdom and guidance. Especially today, in a world that sends a myriad of messages about who people should be.

So, on the one hand, I look back at the instruction and teaching of my parents and I am grateful for the path upon which they set me. However, I look forward with prayer and godly fear that I will be full of godly wisdom and guidance for my own children when the time comes.

My son, if sinful men entice you,
do not give in to them.
— Proverbs 1:10

For a child not to give in to the growing pressures around them is no small feat, and I can only draw strength and hope from God’s promises. So I am conscience now of the life I live, even before I am a father, setting into practice the life I want to emulate for my children.