The Bible does not say, “Spare the rod and spoil the child,” but it does say, “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes [early]” (Proverbs 13:24).
Unquestionably, the home is the place for discipline. The God-ordained purpose of parents is to give guidance and training to children. But today many parents are content to leave this up to the schools and the courts. As someone has said, “The way some children act it seems that their parents embarked on the sea of matrimony without a paddle.”
Discipline should begin early. It has been wisely said that crime prevention begins in the high chair, not the electric chair. If parents would give more attention to discipline in the home, there would be less need for discipline in the courts.
What form should discipline take? Psychologists are not agreed. Of course common sense tells us that the punishment should fit the crime. The means of discipline you use should vary with the age, temperament, and personality of each child.
Discipline is a sign of love. The parent who really loves a child will want the child to grow to be a well-mannered, respectful, and upright person. This is not probable without discipline. The discipline of children requires self-discipline. The easiest thing to do is to let them go. The parent who does not discipline a child is either lazy and indifferent or misguided as to the meaning of real love.
Parents, discipline your children. In firmness but love make them obey and honor you. And be sure you are honorable and that you set before them a good example.