Relationship

Consider the dynamic between a dad and child, a relationship where discipline is not just an act of correction but a profound expression of love and a shared commitment to enduring life's hardships together.

Now that I am a father I’ve grown a much deeper appreciation for the way that my dad disciplined me and recognize that our relationship has strengthened over time because of the structure he provided.

Reflecting on that dynamic further, it seems that as a whole, we are missing a huge opportunity to serve each other by seeking ways to grow relationships instead of just focusing on punishing the offender. When the goal of growing a relationship is decoupled from discipline it becomes corporate instead of personal.

As Believers, we cannot dismiss our responsibility on disciplining others, yet at the same time the heart for connecting and growing our relationships is paramount. This manifests itself in two powerful ways that although is frowned upon by the majority, it can be a superpower for those that truly care about the ones they are disciplining, and those attributes are vulnerability and authenticity.

This doesn’t mean that discipline is not executed, it does however, help the ones that you are serving understand you as an individual better and helps them recognize your heart for helping them grow. Being real and open when discipline is necessary as it transforms from an experience that could divide to an opportunity to strengthen the relationship like never before. At the end of the day when evaluating the instances when discipline was required, ask yourself how could that situation have been addressed differently to help the relationship bloom in what the evil one often uses as an opportunity for division.

Questions to Consider

1. How can incorporating vulnerability and authenticity enhance the growth of your relationships, making them more personal than corporate?
2. How has your perspective on discipline evolved over time, especially in relation to understanding the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in building meaningful connections?