Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 29:15 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
The rod of correction gives wisdom, but a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
Proverbs 29:15
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
13 The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: The LORD gives sight to the eyes of both.
14 The king who fairly judges the poor, his throne shall be established forever.
15 The rod of correction gives wisdom, but a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
16 When the wicked increase, sin increases; but the righteous will see their downfall.
17 Correct your son, and he will give you peace; yes, he will bring delight to your soul.
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Parents, when raising their children, must think about two things. First, they must see the value of proper correction. They should not only tell their children what is right and wrong, but also rebuke and correct them when needed, whether they ignore what is good or do what is evil. If a gentle rebuke is enough, so much the better. But the rod should never be used without a serious and reasonable warning. Even though this may bring temporary discomfort to both father and child, it will help the child grow in wisdom. A little trouble can sharpen understanding. The child will take heed and learn.
Second, parents must beware of harmful indulgence. A child who is not held back or corrected, but is left to follow his own desires, as Adonijah was, may turn out well if he chooses rightly. But if he goes into a bad path, no one will stop him. In most cases, he will become a shame to his family, and bring his mother, who spoiled him and gave in to his wildness, into shame, poverty, and disgrace. He may even end up speaking harshly to her and treating her badly.
From This Chapter
Proverbs 29:1
"He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy."
Proverbs 29:2
"When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan."
Proverbs 29:3
"Whoever loves wisdom brings joy to his father; but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth."
Proverbs 29:4
"The king by justice makes the land stable, but he who takes bribes tears it down."
Proverbs 29:5
"A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet."
Proverbs 29:6
"An evil man is snared by his sin, but the righteous can sing and be glad."
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