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Jan 07, 2025 18:00pm

Letters to My Children: Old Fashioned Advice

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We’ve had many talks lately—talks about dating, technology, modesty, and more. I know you think my advice on these subjects is old fashioned. But I want you to stop and consider how the Bible defines parental advice:

“Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck” (Proverbs 1:8–9).

Following the advice of a parent who tries to point you toward wisdom and the fear of the Lord isn’t old fashioned—it makes the listener appear dignified, noble, elegant, and honorable.

The words of a wise, godly parent, carefully listened to and followed, will bring many blessings to their children. The Proverbs say that following your parents’ teaching will bring “length of days and years of life and peace . . . to you” (Proverbs 3:1–2). They will bring life and healing if you keep them within your heart.

Your parents’ advice should not be seen as something to discard at the local thrift store along with their old shoes and sweaters. God says you should treasure their wisdom like fine silver and keep it as “the apple of your eye” (Proverbs 7:2)—and “old-fashioned” idiom that means “something that is highly cherished.”

Your parents’ teachings will help protect you and guide you; it will help you have discernment when you have to make tough choices or are faced with temptation.

I want you to know that I have always tried to give you the best advice I can offer—advice rooted in years of diligently searching the Scriptures for wisdom and knowledge. I have always sought to teach you “good precepts” (Proverbs 4:2) that are grounded in the fear of the Lord. I want you to reap the blessings of following my advice—not because I think I’m so great but because the ways of the Lord are wonderful and good.

“To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity” (Proverbs 1:2–3), to follow your parents’ advice as they seek the Lord—these things are not old fashioned; they are wisdom principles, and they lead to blessings. The Lord says that those who despise wisdom and instruction are fools (Proverbs 1:7). So keep them; follow them; view them as valuable treasures, for they are not old fashioned but timeless ways of life.

I love you. Grow in godliness and in your love for God.