Denying discipline is destructive!
In today’s American contemporary society there is a hot debate going on concerning the use of discipline. Many believe we should be more lenient on how discipline is being applied within our homes and our judicial system. There is an ideological mindset being promoted which states that we need to be more compassionate towards individuals (both youth and adults) when metering out disciplinary actions. Some of the reasoning behind such a belief, is this: Heaven forbid if we do anything negative that could possibly damage the person’s spirit or destroy their self-esteem.
I am definitely not an advocate of physical abuse, or excessive force being used against any individual, especially youth. Yet, I firmly believe there needs to be fair and just consequences (discipline) exacted when rules/laws are broken or violated. By not carrying out and implementing appropriate penalties for violators would be a grievous crime against the health and well-being of our nation, our communities, and our families.
God’s Word speaks directly to this discussion on using disciplinary means for the good of humanity. Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death. Proverbs 23:13-14 It also says in Proverbs 13:24, “He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.” The use of the rod is a reference for all types of discipline, and not simply seen as a tool for physical abuse. If carried out properly the administration of discipline should always be intended for good and not evil; out of concern and care, not hatred and anger.
The Psalm writer David wrote these words in Psalm 94:12, “Blessed is the man you discipline, O Lord, the man You teach from Your law.” God uses discipline for our good and because He loves us, we whom He created in His image. To do anything less would be an attack on Himself. The last thing God wants is to see us run wild, or be disobedient to His good and perfect will, without holding us accountable for our actions. Discipline can be a real blessing for people who need it to help curb their sinful desires and actions. It can be a positive tool for teaching obedience, responsibility, and respect for others.
Ultimately, God showed His deep love for us when He poured out His discipline on His beloved Son Jesus. Jesus took on our punishment, so we would not have to. Does this kind of undeserved discipline make sense to you and me? No! But God cared deeply for us, and Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to suffer our punishment. Does God believe in punishment for sins committed? Absolutely, just ask Jesus! Yes, there is proof that discipline carried out in love can produce bountiful fruit, which flows out of a repentant heart and obedient spirit. Pastor McCarty
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