While this passage provides many instructive lessons, I want to focus today on character development. In commenting on this verse, Albert Barnes made this observation: “The graces or the faults of children are not trifles…the earliest actions are the prophecies of future.” Another way of saying the same thing is “You will play like you practice.” It is important to remember that Proverbs makes observations that are generally true but not universally binding. What I mean by this is that a bad beginning does not necessarily result in a bad ending. Grace can invade and dramatically change the direction of a life at any moment. The beginning, however, is of great importance. How does wise, responsible, Godly behavior occur in a person’s life? God’s normal means is by development. Wisdom is developed through instruction, training, and discipline. It is not automatic nor is it learned through one moment of training. It is slowly but consistently practiced until it becomes an integral part of life. There is no short cut to responsible, wise behavior. As parents, it is a great blessing to understand this truth. Johnny will not suddenly begin to keep his room tidy when he turns 18. If you want Johnny to be responsible, clean, and neat, this must become a habit taught and insisted on consistently. Consistency in parenting is exhausting, but there is great reward as godly habits begin to become part of the fabric of your child’s life. Young people would also do well to accept this truth. The reason your parents make you get out of bed before noon is not because they enjoy your misery. It is because character is developed, not purchased.