Discernment and Discipline (Proverbs 10:13)

Discipline, correction and punishment are things we associate with the relationship between the parent and child. As time progresses, these three things become less familiar to the child, however they are tools that the Lord will always use in His relationship with us.

"In the lips of him who has discernment, skillful and godly Wisdom is found, but discipline and the rod are for the back of him who is without sense and understanding." Proverbs 10:13, Amplified

It is nice to find wisdom and discernment in this life. We are promised in this verse that godly wisdom will be found on him who has discernment. This includes us as well. If we are to practice discernment, then that wisdom will be instilled in us. How then do we practice discernment? The idea of discernment is to make godly decisions. Some choices in life are obvious. We should not steal, kill, view pornography or other things of the like. But what if the choice is not that obvious. It is a common misconception that sin is very easy to distinguish. If this was the case, then none would be in danger of sin. Take for instance the book of James, "Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, yo him it is sin." (James 4:17, NKJV) We can also take the stance that if it violates something in our conscience, then we should not participate in it.

There are those, however, who do not practice such discernment in their lives. The rod of correction is for their backs. The Bible encourages the heavy hand for the disobedient child. Do I spank my children? Yes. Do I beat my children? No. America and CPS have become too lax when it comes to this concept in the Christian family. As you look out in society today, you can see the changes in the dynamic of the family unit. Children are no longer listening to a parents; they are argumentative, disruptive and disobedient because there is a lack of discipline. Now do not get me wrong. I am not encouraging the spanking of children for every little thing. Discipline could include restrictions of going outside to television or video games. The Lord, however, uses discipline on his children. "My son do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor detest His correction; for whom the Lord loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights." (Proverbs 3:11-12, NKJV)