August 4

2 Kings 22-23, 2 Chronicles 34-35
I have heard people judge others’ child rearing because their children turn out to be evil.  They misapply the words of Proverbs 22:6, proclaiming that it is a promise that if we train up our children in the way of the Lord, they will not depart.  However, we are told in today’s reading that Josiah was the most righteous of all of the kings of Israel and Judah.  Yet, his sons who were placed on the throne after his death were both evil.  While it is true that when we bring our children up in the Lord they stand a better chance of leading a righteous life than if we don’t bring them up in the Lord, there is no guarantee on way or the other.  The words of the proverb are words of wisdom, not a promise.  We have many such passages in the Bible that are wise words to help guide us as we traverse this short span on earth.  The ground is shaky when we take these words and apply them as the letter of the law.  Rather, we must live by the Spirit of the word.  God has given everyone free-will to choose the path they desire, regardless of their upbringing.  It is, indeed, heartbreaking when we have lived a righteous life and taught our children to do the same, only to have them go astray.  We can pray and hope that they will turn back before it is everlastingly too late, but it is still their choice.  I am sure that had Josiah lived to witness his sons wickedness that he would have grieved, just as any parent who has done the best they know how.