Living Manna

Introduction

Let us delve deeply into the significance of parental education, both physical and spiritual. It is incumbent upon us to teach our children the ways of faith and righteousness. We must live according to faith to effectively impart these values. The Bible is clear on the role of parents in shaping the future of their children. As it is written, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” [Proverbs 22:6]. This is a sacred duty, and we must approach it with the utmost seriousness and dedication.

What is education?

Education is not merely academic. It encompasses the teaching of values, faith, and character. Parents often think that providing material needs and sending children to good schools fulfils their responsibility, but true education requires more. Let us teach our children that process is more important than the result. It is not like the end justifies the means. It’s not like as long as you reach the goal, it doesn’t matter how you do it. We must instil in them the importance of integrity and diligence. Education is about shaping the whole person, not just filling their minds with facts. The Bible says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” [Proverbs 1:7]. Let us ground our children in this foundational truth.

Faith and education

We must teach our children to live according to faith by exemplifying it ourselves. The Bible says, “The righteous will live by his faith” [Habakkuk 2:4]. If we live by double standards, our children will see through it and may reject the faith. Our lives should be a living testimony of God’s grace and righteousness. Let us be consistent in our walk with God, showing our children that faith is not just a Sunday activity but a daily commitment. As we teach them, let us remember the words of Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”

What do we need to teach them?

First, let us become parents that our children can respect. Respect is not demanded but earned through our actions and lives. Children remember parents who are thankful, honest, hardworking, and faithful. Let us strive to be such parents. Let us be educators not just with words but with our lives. Our children should see in us the qualities we want to instil in them. Let us be parents who live out the values of the Kingdom of God, showing love, patience, kindness, and humility in all that we do.

Let us become parents that our children can respect

Children remember parents who are thankful, honest, hardworking, and faithful. Let us strive to be such parents. Let us be educators not just with words but with our lives. Our children should see in us the qualities we want to instil in them. Let us be parents who live out the values of the Kingdom of God, showing love, patience, kindness, and humility in all that we do. Remember, “Do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” [Ephesians 6:4]. Our actions speak louder than words, and our children are always watching.

We need to teach them the importance of times and places

Life can be divided into phases: learning, working, and enjoying. Each phase has its importance and responsibilities. We must teach our children to appreciate each phase and prioritize accordingly. Let us guide them in understanding that there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens [Ecclesiastes 3:1]. The first thirty years of life are for learning and growing. Encourage them to study hard and gain wisdom and knowledge. The next thirty years are for working and building a family. Teach them the value of hard work and the importance of contributing to society. The last thirty years are for enjoying the fruits of their labour and giving back. Let them understand that each phase is crucial and must be lived with purpose and intention.

We need to teach them to be faithful and upright

Faithfulness and uprightness are key principles. The Bible emphasizes justice and righteousness. Let us teach our children to value the process and not just the results. “The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him” [Proverbs 20:7]. Teach them that being faithful means being reliable and trustworthy, keeping their promises, and doing what is right even when no one is watching. Uprightness means living a life that is pleasing to God, adhering to His commandments, and striving for holiness. Let us emphasize that the journey matters as much as the destination. God looks at the heart and values our faithfulness in the little things.

We need to teach them to respect (proper manners)

Respect begins with acknowledging others’ existence. Let us teach our children to greet, recognize, and respect others. True self-esteem involves respecting others, not fostering self-pride. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” [Philippians 2:3]. Teach them to say “please” and “thank you,” to listen when others are speaking, and to treat everyone with kindness and consideration. Respecting others is recognizing their worth as individuals created in the image of God. Let us model this behaviour in our interactions with others, showing our children what it means to honour and respect those around us.

We need to teach them not to fall into malignant poverty

Malignant poverty is having so much that nothing is valued. Let us teach our children to be thankful and to give. Remember, “what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” [Matthew 16:26]. Encourage them to be content with what they have and to practice gratitude. Teach them the joy of giving and helping those in need. Let them understand that true wealth is not measured by material possessions but by the richness of their relationships and the impact they have on others. As it is written, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” [Acts 20:35]. Let us instil in them a heart of generosity and a spirit of compassion.

Conclusion: Purpose of education

The aim of education is to direct our children towards the right path. Let them know that God will be with them always and that they are covenant people of God. “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” [Matthew 28:20]. Let us pray for guidance and blessings for our children. May they grow up to be men and women of faith, integrity, and love, making a positive impact on the world around them. Let us commit ourselves to this noble task, trusting in God’s wisdom and grace to lead us every step of the way.

AMEN.

Summarized by Nicholas Chiang King Hung