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STUDY 95

Text: Proverbs 13
20 April 2003

Dear Parents,

THE SUBJECT OF CORRECTION OR DISCIPLINE
From time to time we will have to discipline our children. Here are some words of wisdom that could help us comprehend the Biblical concept of correction.

1. Commendation of the Wise Son

There are some children who need very little correction. This son is deemed wise indeed.

A wise son heeds his father’s instruction,
But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

Proverbs 13:1

The fact is that there are few sons who will “heed his father’s instruction” easily. More often than not, our children will scoff at our rebukes.

2. A Word of Warning to those who despise correction

Let us ponder these ancient words of wisdom.

He who despises the word shall be destroyed,
But he who fears the commandment will be rewarded.

Proverbs 13:13

Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction,
But he who regards a rebuke will be honoured.

Proverbs 13:18

No one can discard words of wisdom without having to pay a high penalty. If we do not correct our children, life itself would do that for us – in the severest form.

3. Encouragement to persevere in the work of admonishing our children

He who spares the rod hates his son,
But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.

Proverbs 13:24

There are times when we might be tempted to give up on our children! There are other times when we may be tempted to adopt the secular ways of the world in bringing up our children. One of the ways of the world is to “spare the rod”.

Let us be deeply convinced as to the wisdom and power of God’s Word. Let us learn how to discipline our children properly. If we truly love our children, then let us never allow ourselves to feel discouraged in the challenging work of bringing up our children in the way of the Lord.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie