June 29
Tough
Love
“Anyone who loves their children will correct them. Just as a father corrects the child he delights in.”
Proverbs 13:24 (NIrV)
Milo sat slumped on the couch, phone in hand, scrolling through messages from his friends. They were all going out tonight—dinner, games, maybe even a movie. He grinned, already imagining the fun. Then reality hit. He had no money.
He got up and walked into the kitchen, where his parents were finishing their coffee. “Hey, Dad, can I get some money? Just for tonight.”
His dad set his mug down and shook his head. “Milo, we already talked about this. You need to find a job. We’re not giving you spending money anymore.”
Milo scoffed. “Fine. Whatever. I’ll just sit indoors and do nothing. I’m not bothered.”
His mum sighed. “We’re doing this because we love you.”
Milo rolled his eyes and stomped back to his room. He flopped onto his bed, staring at the ceiling. They didn’t get it. This wasn’t fair. His friends all had money. Why did his parents have to make everything so difficult?
His phone buzzed. It was a message from his mum.
Proverbs 13:24 – “Anyone who loves their children will correct them. Just as a father corrects the child he delights in.”
Milo read it twice. His frustration started to waver. His parents weren’t punishing him; they were trying to push him toward something better. Maybe they weren’t being harsh—they were just trying to help him grow.
He sighed, staring at his reflection in the dark phone screen. Maybe it was time to stop resisting. Maybe it was time to take responsibility.
The next morning, he sat down at the kitchen table. “Mum, Dad... where do I start looking for a job?”
His dad smiled. “Let me help you.”
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for loving us enough to correct us, even when we resist.
Help us to see discipline not as punishment, but as guidance.
Give us the wisdom to listen, the humility to change, and the strength to take responsibility.
Teach us to trust in Your plan, even when it’s uncomfortable.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
