a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your

But a wise and loving parent will not be afraid to bring their child to tears when necessary. The timeless wisdom of Scripture is clear: • “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline

them” (PROVERBS 13:24). • “Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.” (PROVERBS 19:18). • “Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away” (PROVERBS 22:15). • “A rod and a reprimand impart wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother” (PROVERBS 29:15). • “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire”

(PROVERBS 29:17). • “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (HEBREWS 12:11).

These can be hard words to hear. In the short run, it is much easier to indulge our children than to put up with the fury of their tears and complaints. But in the long run, loving and timely correction is necessary both for our child’s wellbeing and for our own peace of mind.