In Proverbs, chapter 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. As Proverbs twenty-nine, verse fifteen states, “The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.” Such discipline is necessary lest children form attitudes that will later bring them to ruin and death, as in Proverbs nineteen, verse eighteen, and Proverbs twenty-three, verses thirteen to fourteen.
Godly discipline in the family will bring happiness and peace to the home, as in Proverbs twenty-nine, verse seventeen, “Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.” It must always be administered out of love, just as it is by our heavenly Father, as in Hebrews twelve, verses six through seven, and Revelation three, verse nineteen.
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 in a loving, God-fearing way.