Listen, Son.

My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:

Proverbs 5:1

These words begin a chapter warning a young man about the dangers of a “strange woman.” Back then a daughter wouldn’t have received the same warning because her hand was given in marriage under the guidance and blessing of her parents. This is still symbolized in traditional weddings today when the father of the bride walks her down the aisle and passes her hand to the groom. It is also highlighted when the wedding official asks “who gives this bride to be married to this man?” To which normally the father answers “her mother and I do.” With the son it is not so.

I have five children. My eldest child is a daughter, and she was a gracious gift from God to gently bring my wife and I into the calling of parenting. (Mostly me.) The four sons that followed are wonderful as well, but as many of you already know, entirely different. They are warriors and explorers, seeking to conquer their world and each other on a daily basis. I can see where they are wired to someday leave our home and follow the Lord on their own.

They must learn to live by sound wisdom or they will experience the fruit of living without it. They must grow in grace and lead with grace. They must show love, demonstrate faith, and humbly form a Christ-following example for their little tribe to follow. Though each must learn to take responsibility for himself, he doesn’t need to be alone. He needs Christ-following mentors, and he needs to listen to them.

On the most basic level, Christ-following men is the chief need of our age. No matter their color, their failures and brokenness, their sense of inability. We need men, who will say, “Listen, son.” Lord help us.

-C.R.