Proverbs 22:6 "Train children in the right way, and when old they will not stray."

"Train children in the right way, and when old they will not stray" (Proverbs 22:6).

Question:

Children when they are grown make choices. Does this suggest that we as parents taught our children badly if they choose badly in adulthood?

Comment:

I think we're all familiar with the experience of knowing what is “right” and making a different choice anyway. The fact that you “train children in the right way” means that as adults they will be aware of the choices they have. It doesn't mean that they will always make the better choice. It does mean, however, that good may come from even the most negative choices, if we are willing to learn from our mistakes and change the choices we make next. The important thing is the awareness that we are not victims—that our choices are expressing as negative consequences in our lives. In human terms we may be parents and children. Spiritually we are all equal in Christ energy. We can't impose our choices on each other. We can only know the truth and offer loving support as lessons are learned and new choices are embraced.   Blessings!

Rev. Ed