Having a baby is a tremendous joy for new parents. Raising a baby on-the-other-hand is an eye-opening experience into the nature of the human condition. The first few months are innocent enough, but as the baby grows so does his/her propensity to exhibit certain undesirable characteristics: selfishness, anger, dishonesty, greed, rebellion, etc. In response to the growing list of inequities, parents often fall into the ditch of disciplinary extremes. Some parents can become abusive, while others turn a blind eye to their children’s behavior. Both extremes are equally destructive, but biblical, loving correction can be the single most influential blessing in the life of a child.
Spanking a child can be a necessary and loving form of correction, but sometimes it is sadly abused. Parents who become abusive spank out of anger and frustration. They become easily irritated and “fly off the handle” at even the slightest transgression. Oftentimes, the children are punished for behavior directly related to a parent’s lack of involvement and direction. Perhaps the reason these parents have become abusive in their discipline is because they struggle with patience, self-control, and pride. Corporal discipline can also become abusive when it is excessive or inflicts physical injury. This type of discipline is unjust, unloving, and ungodly.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, parents who refuse to acknowledge their children’s sinful nature, regard deviance as merely acting-out in order to receive what they need. These parents attempt to fill their children’s self-perceived void with gifts, attention, and affirmation. While they do not intend to cause harm, those who affirm their child without correcting behavior are passively approving it. These children will grow into adults who cannot be corrected or rebuked. They do not perceive error, and they cannot come to terms with their own sinful appetites. Therefore, those who have not learned to accept responsibility for their sin will not acknowledge their transgressions, and consequently cannot be saved from them. This is by far the greatest error, and it is extraordinarily common today.
If the ultimate goal of Christian parenting is to prepare children to respond to the gospel, then it is imperative that discipline accomplishes this goal. By modeling the character of God the Father, a Christian parent can discipline their children through pain, in a way that cultivates humility, builds trust, and shows them their need of a savior. God’s discipline can sting, but it does not last forever. It is intended to drive us to repentance, where we will ultimately encounter restoration and joy.
Whether the parent uses a spoon, paddle, or a firm swat on the backside, the end result is a physical, emotional, and spiritual connection with sin. Little Johnny learns that sin equates to pain, and this will restrain his sinful nature. Furthermore, Johnny’s parents must counsel him concerning his offense, explaining what he did wrong and why he was punished. Most importantly though, little Johnny needs to know that because of Jesus, God is not mad at him, and neither are his parents. Every corporal punishment should end with hope, encouragement, and love. This form of discipline influences children in a positive way and brings glory to God.
0 comments:
Post a Comment