Title: Training the Recalcitrant Child in God’s Way.

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Scripture Foundation
- “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6  
- “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” — Ephesians 6:4  
- “The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” — Proverbs 29:15  

Reflection
Parenting a recalcitrant child can feel like walking through a storm. Their resistance, stubbornness, or defiance may test patience and love. Yet Scripture reminds us that discipline is not punishment alone—it is guidance, correction, and love wrapped together.  
  Consider the story of Hannah and Samuel (1 Samuel 1–3). Hannah dedicated her son to the Lord, and though Samuel grew up in a challenging environment under Eli’s household, her early training and prayers shaped him into a prophet who listened to God’s voice. This shows us that even when children resist or wander, consistent dedication and prayer plant seeds that bear fruit in time.  
  Think also of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32). Though he rebelled and squandered his inheritance, the father’s steadfast love and readiness to correct and restore him became the turning point. The lesson here is that discipline must always be balanced with mercy. A recalcitrant child needs boundaries, but also the assurance that love is never withdrawn.  

Practical Biblical Ways
- Prayerful Patience: Like Hannah, continually lift your child before God. Prayer softens hearts where words fail.  
- Consistent Discipline: Proverbs teaches that correction gives wisdom. Discipline must be firm yet fair, rooted in Scripture, not in anger.  
- Modeling Obedience : Children often resist words but imitate actions. Show them what obedience to God looks like in daily life.  
- Merciful Restoration: When they falter, respond like the father of the prodigal—with correction, but also with open arms.  

Closing Encouragement
Training a recalcitrant child is not about breaking their spirit but shaping it toward God. Discipline without love breeds rebellion, but love without discipline breeds folly. The balance of both reflects the heart of our Heavenly Father, who corrects those He loves (Hebrews 12:6).  
  May we as parents, guardians, and mentors lean on God’s wisdom, remembering that every stubborn heart can be softened by His Spirit.  

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com. Please share your experience with me here and feel free to share this with your contacts. 

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