"Teachable Moments"

There are various ways to recognize those moments when students are “open” to learning. On the other hand, there are many times when students are unwilling to learn no matter who the teacher may be. Recently the phrase, “teachable moments” has become popular. While there are constant opportunities for teaching and learning, many times neither the pupil nor teacher take advantage of the moment.

“A wise son,” wrote Solomon, “heeds (or accepts) his father’s instruction; but a mocker does not listen to rebuke (or correction).” Obviously, Solomon knew something about the teaching process, learner readiness, and pupil attitudes. But that is not enough. Perhaps that is why God inspired him to use the word “instruction.” That word was wisely chosen for its true meaning: “education through correction.” At the heart of each of the Proverbs is the fact that we, in and of ourselves, do not know the ultimate answers to life. We all have the basic need for our Father to teach us His truth and His ways for our lives. And that begins with “the fear of the Lord.”

This proverb places the responsibility of learning on the pupil - the son. But, it also places the responsibility to teach on the father. Yet, to teach the son, the father needs wisdom and fear. We “recycle” back to the truth that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom!”

Fathers are both responsible and accountable to God to teach their sons His wisdom. Yes, there are many things that fathers must teach their sons and daughters, but none as important as teaching them God’s wisdom.

Prayer: We pray, Lord, that all fathers will realize their obligation to You: to instill Your wisdom in their hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 13:1 A wise son heeds his father’s instruction; but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.