Gold Nugget 318 - The First Importance
It is of the first importance that a child should begin life well. A twist in the young stem will develop into a gnarled and crooked tree. A slight divergence at the onset of a voyage may end in a complete reversal of the ship’s course. …
The human body is to be the servant of the mind. If the appetites and lust of the body are allowed to rule, the mind becomes a slave, and all the better principles are manacled and enfeebled. We begin life as dependent children, and the fresh sense of loving obligation should be an antidote for selfishness. But if we set out in life with a resolve to please self, we are already on the way to ruin. Reverence for the parental character, and regard for parental authority, are the only solid foundations for a noble life. To feel unduly the body, and for gratification alone, is to starve the soul. Sensuality fosters self-will. …
The medicine that does not do good, does harm. The flame that does not melt, hardens. Parental chastisement, when needed, is an imperative duty, but should be administered with wisdom, self-restraint, and pity. The obstinacy of the son is not unfrequently due to the foolish leniency or unrestrained severity of the parent. Chastisement is a serious experiment, and always produces some effect, either favourable or unfavourable. We are not the same men after trial or pain that we were before.
The Pulpit Commentary, Deuteronomy p. 353, Deuteronomy 21:18-21, (D. Davies)
Gold Nugget 318
The First Importance
