Do not hold back discipline from the child, although you strike him with the rod, he will not die.
You shall strike him with the rod And rescue his soul from Sheol. Proverbs 23:13-14
The Bible says that disciplining our children is for the good of their soul. While there certainly are boundaries, we are given wisdom from Solomon as to the question “why discipline at all”. There is a mindset that swerves away from any type of physical correction in a child’s life. Style is up to the parent, for sure. The proverb reminds us of the benefit.
My wife and I argue sometimes about discipline and how much to require of our kids in the way of responsibility. While my kids are older and require less discipline (and no physical correction… can you imagine me spanking my 6’5″ son Kaenan, lol), they need to address and overcome challenges in their lives. God disciplines every one of us because He loves us.
God, I require much more wisdom from You in how I encourage and coach my kids now that they are grown. I trust that whatever flawed discipline I employed in earlier years, You can use for some benefit in their adult lives. I pray that as Your child, I will recognize the discipline You place in my life is for my good.
