1. A good name--more desirable than riches (1-16)

Training a child in the right way means teaching him a right value system. A good name is more desirable than riches (1). We should despise no one, for God made us all (2). We must teach our children humility and the fear of the Lord (4); diligence (13); generosity (9); purity (11,14); prudence (3,16). We must discipline children (15). All of us find many excuses for laziness. Two excuses are in verse 13.

2. So that your trust may be in the Lord (17-29)

The words of God kept in our hearts give us true wisdom. There are no short cuts to wealth or wisdom. Wealth that comes by oppressing the weak or by sneakily moving boundary stones will not last. We must be careful about the friends we make (24); we must not be good-minded when it comes to money (26). We must fear God, respect others, and work hard.

One word: When he is old, he will not turn from it.

DON'T ENVY SINNERS

Proverbs 23:1-35

1. Don't be a slave to food and drink (1-8;20;26-35)

When one dines with a ruler, he should not think only about eating. He should pay attention to his host (1-3). When a stingy man invites you to eat and drink, his heart is not in it, so avoid such invitations. Gluttons, drunkards and those who chase women seem to live glamorous and exciting lives, but the outcome of such lives is tragic (20,26-28). Riches sprout wings and fly away (5). Verses 29-35 describe the agony of a person who is a slave to alcohol. We must be zealous for the fear of the Lord.

2. Discipline children (9-25)

It is hard to discipline those whom we love, but if we really love our children, we will discipline them. 'Punish with the rod and save his soul from death.' We must not try to protect our children or our sheep from God's discipline, but we must help them learn and grow from it.

Application: Lord, give me eyes to see worldly people from your point of view. Help me to be zealous for the fear of the Lord, and hold on to a sure hope (17,18).
One Word: Be zealous for the fear of the Lord