Proverbs 13

Devotional:
Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. (Proverbs 13:24).

The rod is a figure of correction in this chapter, including, but not limited to, the appropriate use of physical discipline of children. The parent who refuses to discipline may feel he does so out of compassion for the child, but he is mistaken. The harm in not administering discipline is potentially so great that it could possibly be said that the parent hates his child. Proper discipline for a child comes from both wisdom and love. Such a correction will be made promptly to reinforce the connection between the correction and the child's error. While it can be challenging for those administering discipline, appropriate and timely discipline is essential and required.

Pray it:
God, I know you discipline me out of love to redirect me to you. Help me to stay obedient to your wise words, and when I need corrective behavior, reveal to me how I need to shift my behavior and help me return to you. Amen.

Share it:
Who is someone you can share a verse or thought from this passage with?