Be Still And Know

Proverbs 19:18 Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives. The word ‘discipline’ has a harsh ring to it, but the writer of the Proverbs is clear that it is absolutely essential for every parent to know how to do it. He saw discipline as the way that parents show love to their children. In Proverbs 22:6 he wrote: “Direct your children on to the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” His many references to use of “the rod” suggest that, while methods of discipline have changed considerably, the principle holds good. Every child needs to have the security of knowing what the rules are, and someone who will ensure that they are followed. I remember talking with a friend about his teenage years. His parents allowed him to do whatever he wanted and, at the time, he thought this was great. It stood in marked contrast to those around him who had to follow some very clear rules. My friend was allowed to come back home at any time at night and to drink