By Chad Harrison, Pastor
Trinity Baptist Church
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6
As we approach the holiday season many will feel the inevitable pressure of giving the perfect gift for Christmas. I would like to remind anyone who’s taking the time to read this article that the most precious thing we can give to anyone is the gift of time.
The text above is referring to being a good parent, but this truth can be applied to any relationship or family setting. Think about it, according to this verse there is something that we can give our children that even when they’re old they’ll still return to it and long for it. Sounds pretty good doesn’t it? Let’s take a look at what this verse has to say.
- TRAIN
To train someone takes time. It does not usually happen quickly. When training is taking place there typically is an understanding that the one being trained will require at least some one on one attention.
It is also important to note that if someone is able to train another they must be familiar with what they are training others about. Training requires compassion, consistency, and communication. Compassion to be willing to take the time to work with someone in the first place. Consistency to continue the process of training even when it is difficult. Communication to properly relay the information so that the one being trained is able to comprehend.
- UP
Notice the scripture did not command us to train down. The Word of God said to train up. The word up is referring in this text to being built or constructed. You never hear of anyone building down the house. You do however see a new project go up.
There is a misconception among people that to train someone is to simply tell them where their wrong. Correction is certainly a part of training but remember it is not the most important part. Have you heard the saying that people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care? Caring for someone enough to build them up and encourage them to be what God would have them to be is a mark of a true believer.
- THE WAY
You cannot lead someone down one path and be traveling on another path yourself. In order to train up someone in a certain way you must first be in that way. As a Christian I know that God’s way is best. His way is given to us through His Word.
Let me just say how thankful I am to know that I have a copy of God’s Word in the old 1611 King James Bible. If I ever want to be an encouragement to someone in the Christian life it is vital that I first be an example to them in the Christian life. We should strive to be a practicing Christian and not just a professing Christian! What an honor to be able to help someone find their purpose by living yours!
- HE WILL NOT DEPART FROM IT
Here is the most remarkable portion of this verse. If the truths found in this verse are followed, those who see it in action will return to these truths even in their old age. Why? The answer is that if someone cared for you enough to encourage you, to be an example to you, and to equip you for the road that lies ahead, it would most certainly change your life.
How would you like to give a Christmas gift to someone that they could enjoy for the rest of their life? Good news, you can, and it’s found right here in Proverbs 22:6.
In conclusion, the primary truth given here is that the investment of time in another person is the most precious thing that could ever be given. Whether it is your spouse, your children, a friend, neighbor, or just someone you see that has a need, be willing to invest time and energy in them. This will truly make a difference.
For Christmas this year, rather than feeling pressured to buy extravagant gifts that you may not really be able to afford, give someone the gift of time. Instead of giving a gift, make a memory.
One of the greatest memories of my life is when my mom and dad showed me from the Bible how I could go to heaven when I die. According to the Bible, you can know for sure that Heaven is your home when you die. If you have any doubt that you’re saved, don’t wait too late. Pray and ask the Lord to come into your heart and be saved today. That is the best gift ever given to mankind!
