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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 370

STUDY 370

Text: Proverbs 29
27 July 2008

Dear Parents,

THE ROD AND REBUKE
There is endless debate on the subject of disciplining of children. Let us consider what this proverb has to offer in terms of wisdom and insight.

The rod and rebuke give wisdom,
But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

Proverbs 29:15

1. Two systems are being compared

a) The child is left to himself.

b) The child has firm and clear involvement from his parents.

2. The system of leaving the child to himself

a) It is believed that the child will “grow up”.

And when that happens, he will also “grow out” of his wrong and sinful habits.

b) The essential approach is “hands off”.

c) The child is seen as “good” and “capable” of deciding on doing the right things.

3. The system where there is strong guidance involving discipline

a) Rebuke is one of the means employed in discipline.

i) The child is reprimanded if he does wrong.

ii) He is told the difference between the right and wrong.

iii) He is urged to do that which is right.

b) The rod is used with great care.

i) It is never used to vent feelings of anger of parents.

ii) It is deemed necessary where words have failed.

iii) It is administered with hope that the child would learn wisdom.

How should we decide when we have to discipline our children?

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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