14 Sensible instruction
    is a life-giving fountain
    that helps you escape
    all deadly traps.

One of the wisest individuals I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting was the late Coach John Wooden, the famous NCAA basketball coach of the UCLA Bruins. His fame, however, didn’t come just from the action on the hardwood floor. It also came from the wisdom of his words.

Once, I had the privilege of spending several hours with him during which I asked many questions. One of the questions I asked was, “Coach Wooden, when you have departed from this world and ESPN is broadcasting a special about your life, what do you hope they will say?” As he always did, he pondered a moment before answering, and then gave this spellbinding reply: “I hope they don’t mention basketball. I hope they focus more on how I loved my Lord, my wife, Nellie, and my family.”

That’s it! When it’s all said and done, that’s wisdom of the highest regard, that those who are around you know you love them with all your heart. I learned from a wise man, and I want to pass that same wisdom on to my children. Let us all be faithful to the great calling God has placed on our lives.

Parenting Principle

Get and give wisdom—whatever you do, get and give wisdom.

Points to Ponder

• What story could you tell your children about a wise person you have known? Tell it.
• How are you attaining wisdom?
• How can you seek God for wisdom for your home?

Taken from Once a Day Nurturing Great Kids