ChoicesSample

Discipline—Accepting Correction

There are two basic kinds of discipline: 1) the discipline we learn from others and 2) the discipline we practice in our lives. Children receive discipline when their parents correct them. (But this correction should never be abusive. Punishing a child should never be violent.) Over time, children will learn to make corrections to their own lives. That’s called self-discipline. It helps us to make wise choices.

God is like a wise parent. He knows how to discipline us so that we can learn to make the right choices. As we grow in our faith, we become more skilled and disciplined at living the way He wants. That pleases Him very much because He wants to see His children healthy and mature.

The Bible is the best place we can go to learn discipline. It tells us where knowledge begins and what happens to those who refuse it (especially in the book of Proverbs). Look closely at 2 Timothy 3:14–17. Think about these questions as you read:

1. Why did Paul say Timothy could trust the teaching he had learned? (2 Timothy 3:14)
2. The phrase at the start of v. 16 means the Bible is “God-breathed.” What does that tell you about where it comes from and how much you can trust it?
3. How does Paul say that we should use Scripture? (2 Timothy 3:16–17)

Make It Personal

• Think of someone you trust. Would you be willing to accept teaching and instruction from them? Why?
• Do you trust that God always has your best interest at heart? If so, why is it sometimes hard to accept His discipline?
• Read Galatians 6:1. Do you know someone who needs to stop sinning? Describe how this verse should guide you as you talk to them.