The value of the father as a spiritual guide (Part II. The Discipline)

SUMMARY: In Psalm 23, David expresses his appreciation for God's discipline. The rod and staff of the shepherd represent discipline and correction. Accepting discipline is a sign of God's love for us. As parents, we need to discipline our children in a way that inspires them rather than discourages them. God has given us a task to lead our children in the fear of God, and we need His help to do so. Discipline is necessary and leads to life.

When David wrote Psalm 23, he did not imagine that this song of praise would transcend time and would become the most loved by most Christians of all ages. Among tenderness and praise to the Lord, David recorded his esteem for God's discipline. “His rod and his staff will give me encouragement” (Psalm 23.4). The rod was the shepherd's instrument to impart discipline when the sheep left the fold. With the same rod that the shepherd protected his flock from the dangers of the road and predatory animals, he also corrected the course of those who went astray.

Accepting the discipline and rebuke of the Lord is not always encouraging, however the fact that he is interested in disciplining us is a sign of his eternal love for the good of those who say we love him. Says the Lord: “I rebuke and discipline everyone I love. So be jealous and repent. (App 3.19). Holy word! Our children are sometimes not aware of how the Lord has manifested his greatness, his powerful hand and his outstretched arm in the family that we constitute, all symbols of the multiple ways in which He disciplines both us as parents, as well as the home. who has given us to rule in his name.