“But, first, remember, remember, remember the signs. Say them to yourself when you wake in the morning and when you lie down at night, and when you wake in the middle of the night. And whatever strange things may happen to you, let nothing turn your mind from following the signs.” C. S. Lewis had a knack for enticing his readers to investigate the life lessons in his written works. Some are more obvious than others, while many require a depth of biblical knowledge to properly identify the specific doctrines so cleverly illustrated for us.


In “The Silver Chair”, Aslan implores Eustace and Jill to earnestly memorize and follow his instructions as well as to beware of the temptation to follow their own understanding. Under different circumstances, the Squire, in “The Squire and the Scroll”, is also instructed to faithfully adhere to a set of truths. These truths would be necessary for successfully completing his commission. In like manner, the motive of both boys is to receive the promise or reward.


Whether the reward is participating in the ultimate restoration of all things broken or simply receiving the blessings of His favor, memorizing His ways seems feasible. Sadly, the more practical a task appears, the less value we seem to place on its significance. We are great at rationalizing the following of our hearts. "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:” The prophet Jeremiah gave a warning against this fallacy.


It is possible that boys, or the male gender, wrestle this temptation more than females. Created as leaders, most are naturally bent on receiving fulfillment and gratification in making their way and finishing the race in their own strength.


“The Squire and the Scroll” is a great reminder for our boys to willingly submit to the authority given in God’s Word. As parents, we are instructed to “teach them diligently” (Deuteronomy 6) to our children. Memorizing scripture is one of the most powerful weapons with which we can equip them. The Lord promised Joshua strength, courage, and success that would come as a result of meditating on His Word. Memorization and a mental understanding of the scriptures alone will not win the battle. They must commit to obeying these truths.


I am grateful for authors who choose to concentrate their creative abilities to capture the minds and hearts of young readers and empower them to live boldly for the Lord. When circumstantial principles can be taught across eras, it proves God’s instruction is timeless. John Bunyan’s “Pilgrims Progress” is another great example of this skill.


I was thrilled to be introduced to this resource for my boys. Submission and humility are purposefully glorified while not injuring Godly masculinity. When a father is equipped to actively engage with his boys around the truth given in God’s Word, we all win!