Pay Attention to the Rod
Raising children is a difficult task. I have found that it takes much prayer and searching of God's Word for His ways in being a good father. Then, we must be diligent to apply His wisdom consistently to truly raise our children well. When we do that, one of the things we find in the book of Proverbs is the use of the rod of correction or discipline. I know some people are against any type of corporal punishment, but God is clear that we should use it. When we do, we are trying to eliminate wrong behavior, and if it is done effectively, then we can train the child to do the right thing instead. However, it is a challenge. The child has to pay attention to the rod. If they fail to take the discipline and fail to listen to their father, it doesn't prove effective. The same is true with us and God. (Micah 6:9) Micah told the people that the voice of God was calling out to the city of Jerusalem, and it was wise to fear His name. He was telling them to pay attention to the rod and the One who ordained it. This message goes for us today, as well.
As believers, we must submit to God as our Father and listen to His voice. We are not to try to convince Him to do things our way, but we are to do whatever He says, and do it His way. This will lead us to have the abundant life. It is always wise to fear the name of the Lord, which means to respect Him, His character, and His authority as Lord of all. When He has to use the rod on us, we must pay attention and not be like a rebellious child who refuses to heed the rod. We must pay attention to the One who ordained the rod to be used for our good and growth. If we will listen and repent of the sins that caused God to have to use the rod on us, then, He will lovingly show us the right thing to do. It is the combination of the rod and His training that makes us more like Jesus each time. However, we can skip the rod, once we really fear His name, because we will listen the first time and do what He says. That is the best way to achieve God's will for us.
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Tomorrow, I intend to read Micah 7 and Nahum 1-2.