No Bounds
A child without boundaries is a child bound for trouble! Whether it is playing in the sand as a child, or running the streets as a youth, without boundaries there is bound to be trouble.
Without boundaries the inherit natural tendencies for man to “rule over” will often cause him or her to intrude upon the space of his neighbors in all areas of life. Although one could argue and believe that the only thing is needed is “self-control.” I would boldly protest and ask, “How many times have you said, I would never do that, or I can’t believe they did that?” Yet, you found yourself doing or saying the exact same thing.
Yes, the inherit sin nature of man will compel him or her to step over the line repeatedly in order to obtain what they want and fulfill their personal desires. Because there is no deterrent, man will inevitably yield to his or her own greed, and cry out, “Mine, Mine, Mine!” That lustful desire to pleasure me, myself, and I, will draw man like a magnet to overstep into the quadrants of his or her neighbor. Our only hope in controlling the beast within, is the rod of correction from without and the power of the Holy Spirit through conversion working within.
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away”. – Proverbs 22:15 (NIV)
“Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad.” – Proverbs 29:17 (NLT)
“To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.” – Proverbs 29:15 (NLT)
“Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.” – Proverbs 13:24 (NLT)
“For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” – Hebrews 12:11 (NLT)
