Proverbs 13:24

New International Version (NIV) 

Whoever spares the rod hates their children,
but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.

For meditation

Indiscipline and lack of respect to authority are affecting societal freedoms and inhibiting our progress at all levels today. We may have to take a second look at the way we bring up our children these days. Have most parents not totally abandoned child discipline? The Bible teaches us to “Train up a child the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

1. Have you noticed the reaction of a child when you send them or asks them to clean their room, or to engage in a chore around the house?
2. Do you realize that you will never discipline that child, if you allow the look in that child’s face to affect you?
3. But, is discipline a necessary part of a child’s upbringing?
4. Should we leave the question to society to decide this matter for us or to allow the word of God to inform us?
5. Which option benefits the child most and has eternal consequences?
6. Unfortunately, have you noticed how we have disregarded biblical counsel and thrown away the rod of discipline for societal counsel (Prov. 13:24)?
7. Have you noticed how increased wealth and conveniences in our homes are depriving our children of the discipline and value of household chores in their upbringing?
8. Is anybody counting the cost to our children’s lives?
9. Is it any wonder that Christians today cannot “endure hardship as discipline”, as the Holy Spirit commands in Heb. 12:7?
10.  And, is it surprising that many do not want to hear anything about suffering as part of the Christian’s walk with the Lord (Phil. 3:10)?
11. So, when it comes to the question of discipline, what should your ultimate concern be – result or reaction?
12. Don’t you think the goal for your child’s future should be a strong and resilient adult Christian life?
13. Is that not why God disciplines His legitimate children (Heb. 12:7-11)?
14. So, do you love your child as God does?

Then, apply the rod of discipline as part of their upbringing. For, your set parameters and loving touch would speak love to the child’s heart in ways you may not perceive until they exhibit emotional maturity in their adult life. Their appreciation will be your pride and comfort when you’re old.

Shalom