Proverbs 13:24 (NKJV) — 24 He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.

Tough love. Some parents deceive themselves into thinking they love their children too much to discipline them. But the father who refuses to discipline his children actually acts as if he hates them. He shows no concern for the development of their character. (See Proverbs 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; 29:15; Hebrews 12:6-11.) Parents who love their children will chasten them early in life. The person who receives no discipline while growing up will have little self-control and will be of shallow character.

Discipline does not mean beating or abuse. We can learn how to discipline our children appropriately by noting the following aspects of God’s chastening of His children. (1) He never leaves a question as to His love for His children. (2) While the discipline may be painful, the pain is never permanent. There is no injury. (3) He does not chasten in an emotional fit of anger, but out of a determination of what is best for the disobedient person. (4) He restores the offender back to fellowship with Him. (5) When the discipline has been rendered and forgiveness sought and granted, He never again brings up the offense. (6) The discipline is designed and intended to produce repentance, not rebellion.

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