Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

Asaph stressed the importance of teaching the next generation about the Lord.

What does it mean?

This is a maskil or instructional psalm. The psalmist’s instruction was to learn from the past and instruct others. Each generation was responsible for teaching their children what they had learned about the Lord. Kids who were taught to recognize God’s hand at work in the world learned to trust His power. Children instructed in His Law were more likely to follow His commands. If these truths were not impressed upon children from a young age, they would follow their sinful nature, forget what God had done, and refuse to obey Him. To prove his point, Asaph recounted Israel’s long history of rebellion against the Lord.

How should I respond?

As parents, we show our kids from a young age how to brush their teeth, tell them to eat their vegetables, enroll them in a variety of classes, and drive them to endless athletic events. Yet of all the things parents can do for their children, nothing is more important than teaching them the truth about God. Taking them to a Bible-believing church is important, but those truths must be backed up with practical instruction in daily life and by modeling trust in the Lord and obedience to His Word. What have your kids and grandkids learned about the Lord by watching and listening to you? Be aware of teachable moments today. Tell them how God has taken care of your family in the past. Show them what the Bible says about their issues at school and with friends, and then pray with them about those things. If you don’t impress your beliefs upon their hearts, the world will.