In Proverbs, chapter twenty-nine, verse fifteen, “The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.” Children who are not trained, disciplined, and restrained by their parents will later bring shame to them and harm to themselves. Sometimes words of reproof alone are adequate; at other times, they must be accompanied by the rod of correction, as in verse seventeen of the same chapter theme, “Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.” If physical discipline is used, it must be accompanied by an explanation so that the child clearly understands why the rod was used and what conduct is required.
“He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes,” as in Proverbs thirteen, verse twenty-four. The scripture instructs parents to discipline their children with the “rod” during their formative years. Spank is a slap on the bottom that is done only for wilful disobedience or defiance; it has as its goal the elimination of folly, rebellion, and disrespect for parents, as in Proverbs twenty-two, verse fifteen, “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.”
Adequate parental discipline, administered in a wise, loving, and considerate manner, helps children learn that wrong behavior carries unpleasant consequences and may involve suffering. Such discipline is necessary lest children form attitudes that will later bring them to ruin and death. Godly discipline in the family will bring happiness and peace to the home. It must always be administered out of love, just as it is by our Heavenly Father.
Parents who spare the “rod” during the developmental years will make their parenting more difficult as their children grow older. Arguably, physical discipline is not in the best interest of many parents. However, some Mothers and Fathers resort to shouting and being firm, which may help some children but not all, specifically if the child becomes rude and receives no discipline from their parents. However, the approach to disciplining a child should not be violent but loving and God-fearing.