Listen to this devotion
Discipline
In the Word
My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in (Proverbs 3:11–12).
Of the Word
Our heavenly Father loved His children so much that He sent His Son Jesus to suffer and die for their sins. Because of Jesus, sins are forgiven. However, this forgiveness does not guarantee that trying situations will not happen. The Father disciplines His children for their good. The Lord lovingly uses adversity to instruct His children and guide them back to Him.
It is the responsibility of the parent to set boundaries for children. Children will often stretch these boundaries to the limit. Discipline is a tool to be used as a loving way to instruct and guide the child back in the right direction — back to the love of Jesus. Faith-filled parenting practices forgiving the sin while still loving the sinner.
Stretch your faith-filled parenting: Resolve to discipline your child with firmness, love, and respect, confident that the Holy Spirit will work through you to do what is best for your child.
Walking with my Lord
Loving Father, forgive me when I am short-tempered and impatient. Help me to show love and respect when it is necessary to be the disciplinarian in my home. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Faith-Filled Parenting. Authors: Rev. Larry and Shari Miller. 20/32 ©2009 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
