Something that bothers me a lot is seeing the way children are with their parents. So many children today have little or no respect for their parents and as I watch their interaction it is easy to see why. I am not saying I’m the greatest parent or offering any parenting advice, but it is very clear: “A refusal to correct is a refusal to love; love your children by disciplining them.”
When your child is being unruly, is it wise to buy them something (which is a reward) for that behavior? Are we supposed to say, yes you were very disrespectful to me and to others but I will reward you so you continue this behavior in the future? It pains me to see this happen again and again. Perhaps these parents think they are taking the road that is easiest (which is true) and that they are being a good friend (though parents are not to be friends first or they would be called “friends” rather than “mother” or “father”). Sadly, these people are destroying their children (Proverbs 19:18). Yes, destroying them.
There are many young adults who are disrespectful because their parents allowed it. They have no compassion for their parents never taught it. They have no humility because their parents never showed it. They have no true concept of love because the parents only gave things. If you are a parent, it is your job to discipline. I want my kids to do great things in the world, so I discipline them so that they will be able to grow and learn and do great things in the world. I am so grateful that our Father disciplines us and I am thankful that my parents disciplined me and my sister. If you truly love your kids, watch what you teach them.
“A refusal to correct is a refusal to love;
love your children by disciplining them.”
-Proverbs 13:24 [MSG]
“Discipline your children while you still have the chance;
indulging them destroys them.”
-Proverbs 19:18 [MSG]
Tania Gutekunst 