by Charles R. Swindoll
A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, but a man of understanding draws it out.
(Proverbs 20:5)
To make this verse even more practical, let’s think of this “plan” in these terms: “A plan in the heart of a child is like deep water, but a parent of understanding draws it out.”. . .
Do you have a child who is mechanically inclined? He needs to know you notice. Make comments about it. Brag on his ability. Do you have a child who is athletic, well-coordinated? He needs to know you believe he is well-coordinated. You say, “That’s obvious.” But perhaps he hasn’t heard it directly from you. He wants to hear you say it. You have a child who is intellectually gifted? You sense that she would be good at research, probing deeply into various subjects? Tell her. Mention the future possibilities. Help her find the right university. Rather than hammering away on petty stuff that doesn’t matter, spend more time discovering how your children’s interests can be channeled. Building a strong self-esteem takes a commitment to discover.
Taken from Charles R. Swindoll, Wisdom for the Way: Wise Words for Busy People (Nashville: J. Countryman, a division of Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 324. Copyright © by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.
About the Author // Charles R. Swindoll
Accuracy, clarity, and practicality all describe the Bible-teaching ministry of Charles R. Swindoll. Chuck is the chairman of the board at Insight for Living and the chancellor of Dallas Theological Seminary. Chuck also serves as the senior pastor-teacher of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, where he is able to do what he loves most—teach the Bible to willing hearts. His focus on practical Bible application has been heard on the Insight for Living radio broadcast since 1979.