Discipline is good
for the soul. We have a natural tendency to do what is wrong. We are not able
to identify wrong behavior without help. We need a guiding and firm hand to
show us what is right and hold us accountable for it. We naturally do what is
sin and need to be taught that sinful behavior has consequences and is not
acceptable or good for our well-being. Sin left unchecked ruins the soul. Its
end is an eternity in hell.
Understanding right
from wrong is essential for discipline to work.
There can be no gray area on behavioral issues. Clear guidelines must be communicated so that
one’s children will not be confused when discipline is meted out. Understanding the importance of guiding
children on what is right and wrong is essential for the well-being of our
children. Anyone without moral guidance
will end up a real mess and be a burden to society unless the Lord miraculously
intervenes.
In order for
discipline to be effective, children must see consistency in the lives of their
parents. They must see their parents
practicing what they preach. Children
tend to imitate their parents and if they see their parents living a different
life than they are expecting their children to live, there will be very little
co-operation and conflict will be the norm.
Discipline flows from
a loving heart. It shows that someone loves us enough to help us do what is
right. It is essential to healthy and happy living. It is true on a human level
and it is true in our relationship with God.
“Thank you Lord that
you love us so much that you won’t spoil us and let us get away with sin. Thank
You that you will do whatever you can to keep us from self-destruction. Thank
You for keeping us on track. Lord, don’t let up. We need Your corrective hand.
We need You to hold us accountable for our sin. We need Your loving discipline. We need to know that You indeed love us and
that you take an active interest in our lives.
Lord, forgive us when we resist you; we are prone to wander from You and
we must have your help to keep us on track. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
No comments:
Post a Comment