“My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother” (Proverbs 1:8).

The purpose of the Book of Proverbs is: “To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding” (Proverbs 1:2). Then, the “Proverbs for Solomon”—perhaps compiled by his father, David—are laid out in the form of 14 “lessons,” each of which begins with the loving words, “My son,” or its equivalent, “O ye children” (Proverbs 1:8; 2:1; 3:1,11,21; 4:1,10,20; 5:1,7; 6:20; 7:1,24; 8:32).

The first of these, cited above, urges the importance of children being willing to heed the counsel of their parents. This command is even more important today, if possible, than it was in Solomon’s day or any other generation since. One of the cardinal characteristics of the “last days” is predicted to be the fact that children will be “disobedient to parents” (II Timothy 3:1,2). “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor thy father and thy mother; which is the first commandment with promise” (Ephesians 6:1,2). Especially does this apply to children of godly parents.

It is profoundly significant that each of the 14 lessons stresses the urgent importance of young people to heed the word of God, as taught them by their parents. “Wise counsel,” “learning,” “discretion,” “instruction,” “knowledge,” “understanding,” and “wisdom” are promised over and over to those who know, and love, and obey God’s word.

“My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God” (Proverbs 2:1–5). HMM