Be Still And Know

Proverbs 19.18 NLT 'Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives.' The word discipline has a harsh ring to it, but the writer of the Proverbs is clear that it is absolutely essential for every parent to know how to do it. He saw discipline as the way in which parents show love to their children. In chapter 22 verse 6 he wrote, “Direct your children on to the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” His many references to use of the rod suggest that the methods of disciplining have changed considerably, but the principle of discipline holds good. Every child needs to have the security of knowing what the rules are, and someone who will ensure that they are followed. A failure to put in place clear boundaries is, in the opinion of the writer, a sign of hatred towards children. I remember talking with a friend about his teenage years. His parents allowed him to do whatever he wanted and he thought this was great. It stood in marked contrast to those a