Today’s Scripture is Proverbs 29:21.
“If a man pampers his servant from youth, he will bring grief in the end.”
When we spoil someone early on, whether it’s a child, a servant, or anyone under our care, we may think we are being kind. However, Proverbs warns that pampering without correction or discipline leads to long-term problems. People who are spoiled often struggle with responsibility and self-control later in life. They may grow to expect the world to cater to them, which can bring grief to both them and those around them.
Discipline and guidance are necessary for growth. Without it, bad habits can take root, and those habits are hard to break. That’s why it’s important to set boundaries early on. As one writer said, “Indulgence makes the heart grow discontented.”
Proper discipline shapes a person’s character. It teaches them to face challenges and make decisions that benefit not just themselves but those around them.
Obviously this text makes a reference to the truth that we should not pamper another person, but this lesson equally applies to applying discipline to ourselves.
I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.