Discipline, It’s Teaching Not Punishing

Does punishment alone leave out the instruction and care of those in need of reform?

I’ve always liked to view discipline as teaching. Punishment alone seems to leave out the instruction and care of the individual in need of reform. I feel punishment alone relies on manipulating behaviors, with pain or discomfort to achieve the desired outcome. What I find so interesting is that often good discipline includes punishment. So why then would that be okay? To me, it has a lot to do with completeness.

Think of the 10 commandments. What a difference there is living up to these standards with Christ who taught us in love, and the living Word that clearly lays out direction with expectations and clarity of its agreements. How easy is it to follow these necessary rules when there is no relationship, no love, or care in the process, rather simply cause and effect (Pavlov’s law)?

This is my coaching tip for ‘Work On It Wednesday’. Let’s put our heart, mind, and soul into our teaching. Let’s do like Christ did. We can do this at work with people we lead and at home with those we parent. We could actually change the world with loving discipline.

… “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” Hebrews 12:5-6

Today, let’s take a look at areas we wish to affect. Let’s consider those we are to be leading. Are they unruly, causing themselves and others chaos? If so, you have newly inspired insight to discipline others completely. Include instruction that is clear, deliver it with care, stand strong with the spirit in this right place, and then hold those bound to it with vigilant diligence and grace.

Faith Infused Living… Reaching Goals Higher,

Niccie Kliegl CLC, RN

Author of Awaking the Living Legacy