There are those who say that American parents are flunking the job of raising children. In many instances this is true. Most often it is because parents simply will not take the time and effort necessary to guide and discipline their children properly. Why is it that many parents do not discipline their children?
Sometimes it is due to unconcern. Some parents just don’t care about their children. They are so wrapped up in their own careers and pleasures that they don’t want to be bothered. Giving guidance and discipline to a child is demanding work. Some parents are not willing to pay the price.
Sometimes it is due to insecurity. Some parents are afraid their children will resent them and not love them if they discipline them. So the parent tries to win the child’s love by appeasement. Parents can be too hard on children and drive them to resentment. Even the Bible warns us of that. However, few parents need worry about that.
Most often parents’ failure to discipline is due to unwise love. Is it possible to love a child too much? No, but it is possible to love them unwisely. Unwise love can be devastating. Discipline is an expression of love. When parents correct a child, they are saying, “We care about you. We care too much to let you go on as you are.” When parents let their children do what they please, they don’t grow up thinking, “My parents love me; they let me do what I want.” Rather they grow up thinking, “My parents don’t care what I do, so why should I?”
Parents, don’t ignore your children, or fear your children, or abuse them. Love them. Real love demands discipline that is both firm and reasonable.