Do You "Safeguard Practical Wisdom??

Conclusion of HOW WILL IT HELP MY FAMILY?

Parents developing practical wisdom will think about the way they discipline their children  and the effect this will have on their children in the future. Parents should not quickly react to the embarrassment of the moment. Perhaps in private, they can calmly and lovingly reason with a child, explaining that Jehovah expects him to honor his parents for his everlasting benefit.  then when the child shows that he respects his parents, he will realize that he is honoring Jehovah.  (Ephesians 6:2, 3)  This kind approach could touch the child's heart. He senses his parents' sincere care, and his respect for them grows. Now the stage is set for the child to ask for help when important matters come up later.

Some parents may feel bad about possibly hurt their child's feelings, so they avoid giving correction. Yet, what will happen when the child gets older?  Will he fear  Jehovah and recognize the wisdom of accepting God's standards ?  Will he be inclined to open his heart and mind to Jehovah, or will he isolate himself spiritually? - Proverbs 13:1; 29:21. 

A good sculptor plans ahead for what he is trying to shape.  He does not just chip away and hope for the best. Parents with practical wisdom spend hours learning and applying Jehovah's standards, thus fearing his name. By not isolating themselves from Jehovah and his organization, they gain practical wisdom and use it to build up their family.

Daily, we face decisions that could affect our lives for years to come. Instead of quickly coming up with a response and making a spur-of-the-moment decision, why not stop and think?  Weigh the long-term consequences. Seek Jehovah's guidance, and apply his divine wisdom. Then we will safeguard practical wisdom, and it will give us life. -Proverbs 3:21, 22. 

Next time: HOW CAN PEOPLE MAKE PEACE?

From the Watchtower magazine