Proverbs 23:15 My son, if your heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine. I. THE ATTAINMENT REQUIRED. A pious youth is said to be wise in heart. 1. To show us that religion is wisdom. 2. That this wisdom is not notional, but consists principally in dispositions and actions. Religion has to do "with the heart"; and a knowledge that does not reach the heart, and govern the heart, is nothing. II. THE CONSEQUENCE ANTICIPATED. Pious children afford their parents pleasure on three principles. 1. A principle of benevolence. 2. Of piety. God is particularly pleased and glorified by the sacrifices of early religion. 3. Of self-interest. Distinguish between self-interest and selfishness. The piety of children affords parents evidence of the answer of their prayers and the success of their endeavours, and so delights them. It becomes a means of their usefulness. By such children parents hope to serve their generation. It ensures to parents a proper return of duty. And it will free them from a thousand bitter anxieties, such as are caused by children's removal from home; taking any important step in life; or being bereaved of their dearest relations.Conclusion: 1. Address those who, instead of a joy to their parents, are only a grief. 2. Address parents. Have you conscientiously discharged your duty towards your children? If you have, and nevertheless find your "house not so with God "as you desire, yield not to despair. Never cease to pray and to admonish. Some shower of rain may cause the seed, which has long been buried under the dryness of the soil, to strike root and spring up. (W. Jay.) Parallel Verses KJV: My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.WEB: My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad, even mine: |
    |