“A wise son heeds (and is the fruit of) his father’s instruction and correction, but a scoffer listens not to rebuke.” Proverbs 13:1 (Amplified)

“Withhold not correction from a child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.” Proverbs 23:13

Every child is the product of parental instruction and correction. Thus, it is vital that your children learn early in life that there is a consequence for their disobedience and a reward for their obedience. Many parents are afraid of instructing and correcting their children.

The construction of great destinies is by instructions. Teach your children to value and take fast hold on instruction because that is where their future lies. Don’t allow them to dictate the kind of instructions and corrections that must be given.

“ Open rebuke is better than secret love.” Proverbs 27:5

A son that takes correction will give rest and delight to your soul. Do not leave your children without giving them instructions and corrections, and ensure that they comply with your rules at every point.

“My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of His correction: For whom the Lord loveth He correcteth; even as a father the son in whom He delighteth.” Proverbs 3:11-12

Teach them that instructions and corrections are not burdens but blessings.The construction of great destinies is by instructions.

No good parent will give to his children what will destroy them. Perhaps you have been instructing and correcting them without any result, the reason could be your approach. So, if you don’t like the way your children behave change your attitude and approach with them.

Be Cautioned

Don’t always use cane on your children otherwise they will get used to it, and will therefore have no corrective effect on them any longer. Let the use of cane be the last resolve you will employ in correcting them.

Note that the rod is likened to Gods Word, when it is spoken it has instant effect. The use of cane must be with a limit, don’t make it a regular thing. When you check the back of some children you see the mark of several beatings on them. Children are not to be beaten in anger; it does not instill the desired correction. If you are vehement with your child, the enemy will take advantage of you.

Consider this situation; a woman had a very stubborn girl living with her. The little girl committed an offence she couldn’t condone so she beat her with a bunch of broom; she didn’t know that in the process of beating the girl, pieces of the broom had broken into her body and was festering. When she was taken to the hospital it was discovered she had tetanus and she finally died. This is a very sad situation, you must be careful not to allow punishment result in child abuse.

Another situation, a mother called her son several times without any response but before he could respond, she picked up a cane to beat him with and out of fear the boy took to his heels and ran out into the street where an oncoming vehicle knocked him down and he died! This is another pathetic circumstance. These examples are painful; but they make my point clear.

Children are not to be beaten in anger; it does not instill the desired correction.

You don’t have to go to these extremes in trying to discipline your children The key is to have control over your temper. Anyone who does not have control over his spirit is like a city without wall. (Proverbs 25:28). Let everything be done moderately. Note that the devil is seeking to destroy the precious but he will not find you!…

This text is an extract from the book “BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES OF PARENTING” written by Mary A. Abioye. 

We invite you to read the following article “STRATEGIC PARENTING“.