Discipline and Grace
“Now therefore, listen to me my children, For blessed are those who keep my Word. Proverbs 8:32
Christians revel in the love God shows us by commanding us to do things that will ultimately be for our own good. When we don’t do things His way we recognize, understand, and often appreciate the fact that He will discipline (use His methods to teach) us so that we can see His way as the better way.
What a great example God sets for parents (and grandparents). To. Follow.
A simple example would be the way we treat other people, especially family. When I got snippy or was unkind in response to an angry statement from one of my kids, the argument would escalate. The Bible is clear that, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1
Most parents know this is true. It just doesn’t come to our minds in the moment!
Proverbs often addresses Fathers or Mothers – or both (Proverbs 6:20, 10:1, 23:24, 30:11). Biblically speaking, parents have a great responsibility to raise their children to fear the Lord, to walk in His statutes, and to live according to His principles. (Deuteronomy 6:6-8).
Even if an older child shows no signs of being a Christian, parents can teach them and hold them to the principles of scripture for his/her own good. In fact, we have a God-given responsibility to do so. Even the non-Christian who gives a soft answer will turn away wrath just as her harsh words will stir up anger.
It appears that many families, including some Christians, are following worldly standards for their parenting. This is not good for the children. So many fathers have abandoned their families. So many mothers are too tired to discipline their children. The Bible says that if we discipline our child, “he will give you rest” and “give delight to your soul.” The very things that will be good for all of us, we fail to do because we think the world will judge us for it.
Why do we care what the world thinks? The Lord warns us that the world “follows the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience,” i.e., the devil. He goes on to point out that this leaves people with no hope and separated from Christ. (Ephesians 2)
So, parents, are we teaching children the ways of the world or allowing behaviors that go against godly principles? It is important to know and believe that God has a better way. This way of discipline is a way of grace and a way of showing love for our children in our daily routines.
When children are raised according to biblical principles they are more likely to experience good relationships (in and outside of the family), to be well respected, and most likely, they will be honored at home and in the workplace.
What more could we ask for them? …Salvation.
Hopefully, with the discipline of godly principles, and seeing that they are useful tools in making their way in the world, plus the prayers of faithful parents, the Lord, in His grace, will regenerate the hearts of children and bring them to a solid faith in Him.