God disciplines us, and we must not hate that discipline, because in love, He disciplines us for our good (Proverbs 3:11-13; Hebrews 12:5-11) In the Old Testament, God included the story of Eli, a Jewish priest who discovered what happens when a father, wrong or tender-hearted, fails to discipline his children (1 Samuel 2:27-36)
Fathers should correct their children, but not harshly. Morality should never be confused Anger. Fathers should intelligently control their attitudes and responses when disciplining their children, without exasperating them or angering them (Ephesians 6:4) Godly discipline shows itself in loving, compassionate correction with encouragement.
Correction is a “big one” for dads, and it warrants further explanation. There is a useful five-step method for good discipline Genesis 3It shows how God dealt with the sin of the first couple.
1. It begins Verse 9 “Where are you?” Offenses can raise walls of anger or shame. For relevant correction, always search if the child is hidden.
2. In Verses 11-13, God asked, “What have you done?” Additional information may be required, but be careful not to ask questions in a way that encourages the child to lie.
3. In Verses 14-19, God says, “Because you have done this…” God described the consequences of their sin. The effect is clear, specific, and quiet.
4. In Verse 21, we see “God made clothes.” Why? When their eyes were opened to sin, God had to kill an innocent animal to cover their nakedness. Effects should always reflect a cause and effect approach. Again, be kind, not harsh.
5. In Verses 22-24, God followed the consequences. Verse 23 begins, “So the Lord was driven out…” God’s action is described as “severe mercy” because He loved the first couple so much that He allowed them to sin anywhere near the tree of life, if they would eat of it. , they will remain in their sins forever.
Don’t hesitate to follow age-appropriate consequences to help your child learn to avoid sin.
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