Proverbs 29:17
The scripture for today is Proverbs 29:17
Proverbs 29:17 Correct your son, and he will give you rest; yes he will give delight to your soul.
Raising children properly is the most challenging assignment of parenthood. One does not have an innate ability to do all of the things that are necessary to ensure the well-being of the child as he/she matures. The world does everything possible to make sure that our children are programmed according to its standards and, without faithful oversight, our children will begin to reflect the world rather than the Lord.
Prayer and proper discipline are required, but, like everything else that is given, discipline must be given in love. A child must know first and foremost that they are loved. If we miss that, we will be ineffective in everything else.
Although children do not come with an “owner’s manual,” God has given us His word and His Holy Spirit to impart wisdom to us in how to properly raise our children. God “owns” them, we serve them on His behalf. The child of God must not rely on the world’s way of doing things but rather seek wisdom from the word and Spirit of God.
Our text today instructs us to correct our children when they need correction. To neglect this important instruction is to do so at the peril of the child. They do not know all of the things parents know and it is important that we impart the wisdom of our years into their lives. This often means that they do not get to do everything that they want to do, or what they see others doing. While they may not understand the correction now, and may even feel that it is unwarranted, they will surely understand as they mature. They will also thank the parent for loving them enough to correct them. Love is the key, and love will always fulfill the need. Love provides what is needed, not always what is desired.
“The properly disciplined child gives his parents none of the unending anxiety that the spoiled child causes. Instead there comes a deep joy and satisfaction in seeing him make his own right choices.” The SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 3, p. 1047
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim