His Timing . . . .

Many times we have the right idea in mind with our kids, especially our boys, but we beat them down so much with criticism and correction that they come out of it feeling rejected, dejected, and defeated. Their self-worth is at zero and their confidence level is in the negative. God has a better way of challenging our youth and setting the bar for them to achieve. While He expects obedience and does administer consequences, His discipline is always to build up and to pull up, not tear down and destroy.

For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.(Hebrews 5:13-14)

As we see here in Hebrews, there is a progression from milk to solid food. While we do expect babies to eventually eat "table food", every child progresses differently. It is the same as a young child matures at varying rates and responds to varying forms of discipline. Some respond well to correction and consequence. Others need more positive rewards. Some just need a strong push forward while yet others need a nurturing hug and a steady companion. I know I struggle with this verse . . .

And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.(Ephesians 6:4)

How much is enough? How little is too little? How do I know I am being effective? When will I see results? Am I expecting too much or demanding too little? At some point, I must simply ask of God (James 1:5)and do my best, trusting Him. Over time, training pays off, whether it's in the gym or in the Bible!