As we continue this Biblical Parenting message series, we need to be reminded of the often unmentioned benefits of reproof. No one could question or deny the benefits of divine reproofs, which we read of in various places in the Scriptures. For example: “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor faint when you are reproved by Him; for those whom the Lord loves He disciplines.… All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness” (Hebrews 12:5–6, 11). The same could be said of human reproofs, especially those that come from those within our family. How valuable were those words of correction from our parents as we were growing up! In a similar way, how beneficial loving reproofs can be between husbands and wives! Unfortunately, reproofs are often stated too strongly and are ill timed, unwisely spoken, and lacking in understanding. Those reproofs, rather than bringing benefit, cause painful offences. Now, let’s get our arms around the value of “speaking the truth in love” so that helpful insight makes us aware of our “blind spots,” resulting in needed changes.

Selected Proverbs; Ephesians 6:1–4

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