May 29, 2008

Today's Reading - Proverbs 29
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Following Scripture Verses

1. He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
2. When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.
3. Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.
4. The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
5. A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.
6. In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.
7. The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.
8. Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath.
9. If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.
10. The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.
11. A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
12. If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.
13. The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.
14. The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, his throne shall be established for ever.
15. The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
16. When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.
17. Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
18. Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
19. A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.
20. Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
21. He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length.
22. An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.
23. A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
24. Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.
25. The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
26. Many seek the ruler's favour; but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.
27. An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked. .

Today's Pathway:
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"The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame." - Proverbs 29:15

Modern psychology says that if parents will simply get out of the way and allow their children to grow up according to their own ideas and values, then these children will turn out well and our society will be much improved. Not only is this position completely illogical, it is also un-Scriptural. Solomon writes that a child who is allowed to bring himself up without parental restraints and guidelines is going to bring his mother great shame. Left to himself, he will make foolish decisions based upon his own ignorance and self-centeredness, and this will not only ruin his life, but it will bring reproach upon his parents as well.

What is the solution to the young man's inherent problem? Solomon instructs parents to help him to gain wisdom through the use of the rod and reproof. It is important to note that both of these are required. The rod, of course, refers to corporal punishment, and reproof refers to a verbal chastening, correcting, and instruction. A reproof given without punishment serves no purpose, for the young man knows that there are no consequences for his inappropriate behavior. Punishment without instruction will only drive the young person to discouragement, for he will never be given teaching on how to correct his sinful habits.

Both of these actions require time and love from the parent. It takes time to prepare a child for a spanking, administer it correctly, and then teach the child after the incident is over. It also requires love, for many parents are more concerned with their own needs and wants than they are with those of their offspring. Thus, they either fail to discipline at all, or they lash out in anger with their chastening, or they refuse to give instruction. Missing the mark in these areas will produce a rebellious child who will become a grief to your soul.

God gave you your children to raise for Him. Take your job seriously, and decide today to use the rod and reproof to bring your child to a Biblical lifestyle.

Pastor Mark J Montgomery