I have an amazing dad. He always puts his family first, even though he runs a business and teaches at a university, both of which are incredibly time-demanding. He has taught us the Bible since we were babies and been an example through his own life of Bible memorization and application. He and my mom continually open their home to people they don’t know, so they can have the opportunity to minister to others’ needs. He opens his life up to criticism but only responds in love so that others will have nothing to say. He cries all the time, which is great. And he has cried with me when I’ve been hurt and heartbroken. God always comes first in his life, but his family is always a close second.
I think my dad definitely taught me these truths, and even though it’s written to “sons,” I know it applies to all children. My dad has taught me to get wisdom and insight above all else.
Proverbs 4:1-9
Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction,
and be attentive, that you may gain[a] insight,
for I give you good precepts;
do not forsake my teaching.
When I was a son with my father,
tender, the only one in the sight of my mother,
he taught me and said to me,
“Let your heart hold fast my words;
keep my commandments, and live.
Get wisdom; get insight;
do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth.
Do not forsake her, and she will keep you;
love her, and she will guard you.
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom,
and whatever you get, get insight.
Prize her highly, and she will exalt you;
she will honor you if you embrace her.
She will place on your head a graceful garland;
she will bestow on you a beautiful crown.”
