Proverbs 27:11 (NIV1984)
Be wise, my son, and bring joy to my heart;
then I can answer anyone who treats me with contempt.
Proverbs 27:11 (ESV)
Be wise, my son, and make my heart glad,
that I may answer him who reproaches me.
There is nothing better than the joy a parent feels in the heart that comes from their child(ren). In Psalm 127 we are told that children are a heritage from The Lord. We are given children for the purpose of bringing glory to God. In return God gives us joy through them and in them. But, joy comes from a life of wisdom. Children who don't walk in wisdom won't bring joy to their parents or glory to God. In this proverb Solomon is telling his son to "be wise" and then infers that this will bring joy to his heart. When our children forget that joy comes from wisdom rather than things, or position, or power, than they fall into a horrible trap set by the world and by Satan. Joy doesn't come from something in this world. It is a fruit of the Spirit. When our children walk in wisdom they can be assured that their parents will have the Spirit's joy flow through them and to them. But, joy is only one of the benefits of a walk in wisdom. Not only will it give the Spirit room to produce joy it will also give the parent confidence and defense against those who might attack him/her. Parents are often left to the task of defending their children; for a variety of reasons. When a child walks in wisdom the parent has confidence to answer anyone who may challenge them or treat them with contempt. What a privilege that would give a parent. A wise son makes a glad parent. On the other hand, a foolish son would bring nothing but struggle and strife to a parent. This is why Solomon gives instruction to the son to follow the wisdom path.
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