Correction is God’s discipline. A great example of correction in the Bible is how Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, corrected Moses (Exodus 18:24).
We must listen to receive correction. We must receive correction with humility. We must listen to receive God’s direction. Correction is a gift. Correction for restoration is written in Galatians 6:1. Correction to equip us for every good work is written in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Correction as a sign of love is written in Proverbs 3:11-12. Correction makes us stronger and teaches us how to live with others (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
In our daily lives, especially with our children, we must correct and not let a child grow up without direction, because a child raised without the word of God is a danger to themselves and to others. Correction is something to be accepted; a person who does not accept correction is foolish and will stumble, because correction and discipline come from God.
This is notable in the difficult times in which we live, because, as is written, many will deviate from the word of God. Many will follow their own path, many will live by appearances, many will be rebellious, arrogant, proud, irresponsible, and do not want to be corrected. When a parent corrects their child, it is a great demonstration of love and duty for now and the future, because without correction, no one grows; we all need correction.
The enemy loves it when someone rejects correction and does not acknowledge God, remaining in the clutches of darkness, because the enemy likes the rebellion and pride with which he keeps people blind and in his grip. “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid” (Proverbs 12:1).
Take good note: How many people walk around with weapons? How many people drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs? How many people keep smoking, even though the pack says it contains nicotine, which is destructive to health? And let us look closely at what dominates the market right now: the Vape, which has a warning on it saying it is harmful, yet adults, young people, and even small children hide it, damaging their health.
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:15). A person who listens to advice forgives and makes their heart free, and also stays on good terms with others, because the secret is that when we forgive from the heart, our heart and conscience remain clean and we remain good with God (Matthew 18:35, Matthew 6:14-15).
God corrects everyone, even those in the highest positions, but often people think they know everything and do not need correction, and that is where the stumbling comes in. How often do people prefer to believe in lies and not accept correction to continue living in immorality, in lies, rejecting the word of God, which is good for human life? How often do people see that they cannot live with God and, at the same time, participate in deeds of darkness and idolatry, but they do it consciously, and continue to deceive themselves?
When we correct our child, do not keep scolding day in and day out, but correct with love and provide guidance, so that there is peace and joy in the correction.
Sincerely, Pastor Marcel Balootje.