Parenting Part II: Nurturing with Loving Discipline
The importance of training/nurturing a child is given throughout Scripture. The word “nurture” carries with it the idea of learning through discipline. It is translated as “chastening” in Hebrews 12. “Whom the Lord loveth, He chasteneth” (Heb. 12:6). Prov. 13:24 says, "He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes (in good time).
5 Thoughts on Disciplines:
1. Discipline involves clear boundaries and consequences (expectation before enforcement).
2. Discipline takes various forms. In each form of discipline, there is a right way and a wrong way. A right time and wrong time. As we surrender our will to God's will, He will guide us to discipline with love and consistency in each of the following forms:
- Loving accountability and confrontation
- Speaking instruction
- Sitting in timeout
- Stopping privileges
- Spanking
3. Discipline is to form the child not damage the child.
4. Discipline takes the right motive and spirit.
5. Discipline takes time and consistency.
Final thoughts:
- If it is an investment of love not a reaction of frustration, the child can receive it and value it (if not at the moment in time).
- Children are longing for loving accountability and stability in their lives.