Physical Discipline Is A Good Antidote For Foolishness

The youth has foolishness. The sooner a youth knows it, the quicker they can work on overcoming the foolishness in their heart.

Why is the heart foolish? It lacks godly education. It is a result of the horrible work of sin.

What are some common natures of the young and foolish caused by sin?

1. Cannot take correction (Proverbs 15:5)

2. Air opinions rather than desire understanding (Proverbs 18:2)

3. Think their own way is right (Proverbs 12:15)

4. They find mocking an entertainment (Psalms 39:8)

5. Full of resentment - they feel mistreated and harbour anger deep in their hearts (Job 5:2)

Here's a solution that helps drive away foolishness according to Scripture.

PHYSICAL DISCIPLINE

A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away. (Proverbs 22:15)

Joseph was Jacob's favourite. He tattled to his father about the brothers. Jacob was biased towards Joseph and spoiled him with special clothing.

But Joseph wasn't God's favourite yet.

God spoke to Joseph through dreams, but Joseph wasn't spiritually mature to be used by God. Joseph spent 20 years in hard physical labour which helped him to trust in God alone in a strange land. He remained faithful to God. He cared for those around him and helped them with God's wisdom. Joseph became the wisest man in Egypt.

Eli never disciplined his children and they died in sin. Samson refused correction and discipline - died as a prisoner. Saul refused to obey God and committed suicide.

How can youth today overcome foolishness through physical discipline?

1. Serve the church; obey church elders

2. Help with housework; obey godly/sensible parents

3. Come under the mentors who give spiritual counsel

Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. Spiritual counsel prepares us to use earthly knowledge wisely. Spiritual correction helps us value the knowledge of God above the knowledge of man.

There is nothing more beautiful than walking in the correction of God's word. Walk in Christ. He is perfect and just.

Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.