Sunday, January 1, 2017

Discipline

Disciplining our child is one of the most important things as a parent or caregiver, can do.  Remember the words of the world's wisest man, Solomon?  "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him." (Proverbs 13:24 NIV)

Children need to be disciplined but never belittle them as it can really be damaging to a child's self esteem.  And only use the cane when absolutely necessary.

The Bible recorded that a home cannot be happy without children but at the same time parents are to bring their children to the Lord at an early age.  Matthew 19:13-14.  Parents are to discipline, teach, nurture, and "train up a child in the way he should go" knowing that "when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

Psalm 127:3-5 reminded us that Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him.  Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth.   Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.  They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enermies in the gate.

Discipline is vitally important as it teaches children the concept of right and wrong.  They are also taught to respect authorities like teachers, parents, pastors and even authorities of the law.

Besides teaching them good social skills, it also develop good habits.  They learn that there are boundaries that must not be crossed, such as poor eating habits, poor personal hygiene, and the more deadly traps of drugs, alcohol and sex.

Even as we love our children we should also teach them to obey God and the laws of the country.  Humility is a choice, not a state of being.  True humility relates to two basic choice we make.   The first is a choice to recognize that all we are and all we accomplish is due only to the fact that Someone else has made it possible for us to succeed.  Secondly, true humility chooses to humble its will in submission to a higher moral authority. - Joe Stowell
picture of discipline - Old Habits  - JPG

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