Anonymous (via GotQuestions)
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S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
The phrase "spare the rod, spoil the child" is a modern-day proverb that means if a parent refuses to discipline an unruly child, that child will grow accustomed to getting his own way. He will bec...
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Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
What a tragedy when children are left to themselves, not knowing where or what the boundaries are and what the consequences of rebellion will be! I may be wrong, but I have a suspicion that many people who can’t discipline their children have a hard time disciplining themselves. If you want to enjoy your children all your life, start by lovingly disciplining them early. “The rod and rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother” (Pr 29:15 KJV). “Correct your son, and he will give you rest; yes, he will give delight to your soul” (Pr 29:17 NKJV). -- WWW Proverbs 13:24 He who withholds his rod hates his child Proverbs emphasizes the importance of discipline, viewing it as a matter of life or death (Pr 19:18; 23:13-14). Since children are characterized by folly in Proverbs (Pr 22:15), proper training and discipline ensure they will remain on the right path throughout their lives (Pr 22:6). - FSB Chas. Ryrie says that the discipline referred to in Proverbs 13:24 is training by deed (Pr 23:13). Children learn more by "catching it" from their parents; discipline is better "caught" than "taught." There is an interesting phrase in Pr 13:24, "Whoever spares the rod hates their children." I say it again, parents are urged to use the rod of punishment to drive out folly. (Pr 22:15) so the child won't follow a path of destruction (Pr 19:18; 23:13-14). The "rod," a symbol of Chastening (Wiersbe) and "a rod and a reprimand impart wisdom" (Pr 29:15 NIV) produce a healthy, happy family (Pr 29:17). So teach them and train them, parents! Don't forget Pr 13:24; 22:6. NIVSB Though my wife and I never used an actual rod on our 2 girls, we did have to spank them enough to teach them to behave!
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