I use to think I’d always prefer the reprimand to the rod. There were a few times as a teenager where the reprimands seemed to drone on and on and on and I found myself thinking “can we just get the rod”. You were probably a better kid than me and that was never an issue for you. Solomon starts this verse by talking about the value in raising children with both corporal punishment and verbal correction. He contrasts it with the embarrassment a parent feels later in life if their child grows up and lives an undisciplined life. It is not so much the undisciplined behavior that embarrasses the parent as it is the fact that the parent was not willing to do the difficult tasks involved in correcting and directing their child while they are young. The behavior is often a reflection of lazy parenting. Godly love should always be balanced with truth and consequences. Scripture informs us that God disciplines us because He loves us. In no way should that imply it is fun. But, what it does let us know is that He loves us. Even more it lets us know He values us and our potential contribution to the impact of His people and His kingdom in a world desperate to experience the fullness of both. Godly correction is never harsh or born out of anger. It is always instructive and appropriate. Today receive the correction from the God who dearly loves you and has plans for your disciplined life. #BeTheEdge
“because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” Hebrews 12:6 NIV
