And thou shall teach them diligently unto thy
children
Care and diligence are to be used, and pains taken, to instruct
children, as soon as they are capable, in the knowledge of God,
and of his commandments; that they are to love him, fear him,
serve, and worship him; this is to bring them up in the nurture
and admonition of the Lord, ( Ephesians
6:4 ) , it may be rendered "thou shalt whet or sharpen them"
F19, the words or commandments; it is
expressive of diligence and industry in teaching, by frequent
repetition of things, by inculcating them continually into their
minds, endeavouring to imprint them there, that they may be
sharp, ready, and expert in them:
and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine
house;
at the time of meals, or at leisure hours, or even when employed
in any business in the house which will admit of it; every
opportunity should be taken to instil the knowledge of divine
things into their tender minds: and when thou walkest by
the way;
in a journey, and any of his children with him; or for diversion,
in the garden, field, or vineyard; occasion may be taken on sight
of any of the works of creation to lead into a discourse
concerning God, his nature, perfections, and works, and the
obligations his creatures lie under to love, fear, and serve him:
and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up; at the time of
going to bed, and rising from it; which, as they are seasons of
prayer to God, may be improved in instruction of children.