Precious in His Sight

Book excerpt: Though numerous volumes have been written on human observations about children, very few volumes present God's perspective on them as recorded in the Bible. Precious in His Sight fills the gap admirably. Not only is this volume unique, it is also comprehensive. The author covers all of the children in the Bible, intensively studying the biblical text as well as incorporating insights from the best historical works on childhood and child-rearing in ancient times. The author's sensitivity to the cultural and sociological factors impinging on families in biblical times is everywhere apparent. In order to appreciate what the book of Proverbs says about children, for example, one must understand how children were treated and viewed in other cultures during Old Testament times. Everything the Bible says about children applies to contemporary childhood, according to the author. He finds biblical examples and abundant implications for children's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual development. The principles that can be garnered from this incisive work will help educators and parents in the teaching and training of children today.