As I write this article, my grandson is leaving for college. It is a bittersweet time for his parents, his younger sister, and for us. There is much excitement and a lot of anxiety. The Christian school he is attending has made a lot of preparation for handling the virus, and they have done much to assure the families and students that every precaution has been taken. For me, the big question is, how have the families prepared their children for college?
What advice can you give a child that is leaving home? I suggest that Solomon provides everything a Christian young man or woman needs to pack in their emotional and spiritual suitcase, whether they are going away to school or attending a local school.
First, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7 ESV). Most young men and women go to college to gain knowledge so they can begin a career. They also need knowledge of the Lord to truly be successful. The kind of fear referred to here is filial fear, or the fear of offending God. This kind of fear also implies the respect of worship to God. So, Solomon might admonish the college student to remember that they owe the Lord respect, and they owe Him worship. He might tell them not to fail in faithfully attending worship and continuing to learn from God’s Word.
Second, “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments” (Proverbs 3:1). Solomon admonishes that one needs to remember what is right, have affection for right, and obey what is right. Simply put, don’t turn away from obeying God just because you are away from home.
Third, “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame” (Proverbs 18:13). Solomon provides some valuable information about the art of listening. It is human nature to jump to a conclusion or express an opinion before all the information is known. Solomon suggests that speaking about something one does not understand, making a judgment on something where all the facts are not known, or doesn’t have the patience to truly listen to a matter will bring about folly and shame. Don’t be caught up in the political garbage that is being thrown at us on a daily basis. College campuses are prime targets for such propaganda.
Fourth, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1). Alcohol mocks you, makes a fool of you, and promises something it cannot give. No one who is involved in the influence of alcohol is a wise man or woman. Solomon would tell you, “Just don’t do it!”
Fifth, “He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself. He will get wounds and dishonor, and his disgrace will not be wiped away” (Proverbs 6:32-33). “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10 KJV). Sexual purity applies to both male and female. Parents may not be watching, but God is. Solomon’s advice is to keep yourself pure.
Sixth, “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). As wise as Solomon was, he once listened to and took bad advice from his friends. He is saying to young people that they should fear God as their final judge and that godliness is best begun while you are young.
So, let’s pack the last piece of information in that emotional and spiritual suitcase. “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
With prayer and much love we close the suitcase and send them off to begin their journey. May God bless them and protect them, and may they depend on Him and not their own understanding.
Sandra Oliver