The word "discipline" is clearly misunderstood by many. Most people understand it to mean punishment or negative consequences. While it is true that at times it may be necessary to use punishment as part of the discipline, punishment is not the only definition for discipline.

In truth, "discipline" is: (the training of the mental, moral and physical powers of individuals through instruction, control and exercise.)

You’ll notice the root word here is "disciple". When someone is considered a disciple of a certain teaching or person, he or she is following an example set by someone else, having learned through repeated teaching and training.

The best method parents can use for discipline is proper example. Some would say there are three ways to train children:

1. example
2. example
3. EXAMPLE

As parents discipline themselves in all areas of life, the child is most likely to follow that example. However, since every child has a mind of his own and is not a robot or clone, it is important to study the personality and will of the child. That is why Proverbs 22:6 says:

Keep in mind, also, that every child born is a child of Adam, and is born into this world with a sinful nature. That doesn’t mean they have sinned. It only means they have a bent to focus on themselves in a selfish way. They have inherited a carnal nature with traits that are opposite of God’s principles.

The Bible says:

But the Bible does not leave us without the answer. Here it is in the same verse.

The "rod" has been a controversial word for ages. It need not be so if we are willing to look at it from God’s point of view and then follow His instruction. Let’s take the example of how a true shepherd leads his flock.

In western culture, we often see shepherds coming behind the flock with a sheep dog, moving the sheep forward. In eastern culture, when shepherds wanted to move their flock, they would merely get up, say a word and the flock would follow behind them. Occasionally a sheep might choose to stray off in another direction. It would then be necessary for the shepherd to use his rod to guide him safely back into the protection of the flock. It has been said that if a single sheep would continue to stray, the shepherd would have to break his leg and then carry him close to his bosom until it healed. By doing this, the sheep would learn to trust the shepherd and let go of his rebellious nature.

The Shepherd’s Psalm presents the picture of the True Shepherd:

This gives a perfect picture, not only of the relationship we as parents have with Jesus, our Shepherd, but an example of how to parent our children.

They need not want for the necessities of life…food, clothes, water and love. The times for rest, exercise and meals are regular. When there is turmoil in their life and things seem out of whack in their young minds, the quiet times of listening or sharing with them restores their soul. As you teach them patiently, you guide them in paths of right doing for Jesus’ sake.

Through your trust in your Shepherd, they learn not to fear the anxieties of an evil world, but to depend on the wisdom of a great God that walks with you moment by moment. However, if they continue to walk in disobedience or rebellion, applying the rod when necessary will save their soul. The rod would never be applied in anger or vengeance on the parent’s part. Instead, your love would enable you to be consistent in helping your child understand that every decision has a consequence, and the application of the rod when young may save your child from death at a future time.

Let’s look at a few thoughts from Scripture: