January 17
A Father’s
Love
“My son, do not hate the Lord’s training. Do not object when he corrects you. The Lord trains those he loves. He is like a father who trains the son he is pleased with.”
Proverbs 3:11-12 (NIrV)
Tyrell slammed his bedroom door, frustration coursing through his veins. “Why do they always have to tell me what to do?” he muttered under his breath. His parents had just told him he couldn’t go to a party because it was on a school night. They always had rules—about curfews, homework, even who he hung out with. To Tyrell, it felt like they didn’t trust him.
At dinner, his mom tried to explain. “Ty, we love you, and we want what’s best for you. Sometimes that means saying no, even when it’s hard.” But Tyrell wasn’t having it. “You just want to control me!” he snapped before retreating to his room.
That night, Tyrell’s phone buzzed with a text from his best friend, Jake. “Party’s crazy. Someone called the cops, and people are running everywhere. You missed all the drama!” Tyrell felt a strange mix of relief and guilt. He grabbed his Bible, something his grandmother had given him but he rarely opened. Flipping through the pages, his eyes landed on Proverbs 3:11-12.
He read it again slowly. “Do not hate the Lord’s training. Do not object when he corrects you. The Lord trains those he loves.” The words hit him like a wave. His parents weren’t trying to ruin his life—they were protecting him because they loved him.
Tyrell knelt by his bed and whispered, “God, I’ve been so angry at Mom and Dad. Help me to see that their guidance is for my good, just like Yours is. I’m sorry for being so stubborn.”
The next morning, Tyrell walked into the kitchen, where his mom was making breakfast. “I get it now,” he said softly. “You’re just looking out for me. I’m sorry for being so hard on you.” His mom smiled, pulling him into a hug. “We love you, Ty. That’s what parents are for.”
Prayer:
Father, thank You for loving us enough to guide and correct us.
Help us to trust that Your discipline, and the discipline of those who care for us, comes from a place of love.
Like Tyrell, teach us to see beyond our frustration and accept wisdom with a humble heart.
Thank You for parents, mentors, and others who reflect Your care in our lives.
May we grow in patience, understanding, and trust in Your plan.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
