Verses 1-6
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It is important for parents to settle the division of their goods in their will. This does well to prevent confusion and fighting amongst families.
Verses 7-11
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Verse 8. It is God's best that every person die in an old age and having accomplished much in their lives for His kingdom. Foolish and sinful decisions cause one's life to be shortened(Ecclesiastes 7:17, Romans 6:23).
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A good life is one that is full—full of great accomplishments and experiences. You will see your life as more satisfying if you purpose to accomplish a lot in your lifetime.
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Verses 19-27
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It is good to pray for children.
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Also, experiences in pregnancy and birth can reveal information about one's children. Pay attention to the things you might learn during these times.
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Verse 23. God's plan for your children will be done. Trust His will.
Verse 28
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It is common for parents to express more love for a certain child because they enjoy something about their personality or interests more.
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Knowing this, it is important that a parent put more effort into expressing love to a child that does not share as many of the same interests as them. Otherwise, this can cause resentment in families.
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Verses 29-34
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It is hard for people to obey God when they don't learn self-control or how to lessen the cravings of the flesh. Anyone can sin like Esau did, so we have to be careful (Hebrews 12:15).
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Proverbs 28:21 says, “For a piece of bread a man will transgress...” Don't be fooled. Without being careful, even food can cause someone to make really stupid choices. How should we be careful?
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If you think you need something for your body or mind, in order to be content, this is dangerous. Or if going without something negatively affects your emotions, this is dangerous. It can control you (2 Peter 2:19).
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So, do not depend on any substance or comfort for your body, in order for you to have joy (1 Corinthians 6:12). Fasting is a great way to grow in this area.
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Verse 32. When a person does not have much self-control, resisting temptation can feel nearly impossible—and there is even a fear of death in some cases.
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This is only deception, and it causes people to give up the things that are important. The more you resist temptation, the easier it will become to resist. Remember that saying no to sin is never truly harmful.
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