Proverbs 22:15 Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away. NIV
I have had the privilege of talking to some parents on the issue of disciplining children with rod. A particular woman said that she doesn't believe in using cane but her words would get the job done. God in His wisdom through Solomon recommended the rod of discipline not man. The scripture did not say we should use words to cast out the foolishness that is bound in the heart of a child. In fact, Pro23:13 says we should not withold discipline from a child and that if we use rod(cane), the child won't die.
If words alone were enough, the scripture would have said: speak or counsel the child and the foolishness in his heart would go but contrary to what some believe, rod of discipline was recommended. I agree that the rod of discipline is not the first thing to use when correcting a child. Warning and counseling should precede the use of rod but when the former is not adhered to, the rod of discipline would get the job done. Nobody likes to be beaten, even cows. When children know that doing a particular thing may earn them some strokes of cane, they'll adjust quickly.
The western world has tried to write parenting laws that are opposite what is in the bible. In some countries, it is a crime to beat an erring child. Little wonder most of those kids are ill- mannered and social misfits. Do not confuse discipline with punishment. The purpose of discipline is to correct wrong behaviour but punishment inflict pains only. While growing up, mum was fond of showing us from the bible the repercussions of our wrong actions, she'll beat us and make us say 'thank you'. We realized our wrongs first before the beating. That's how it should be so that your kids won't see you as a wicked fellow. Don't let the media or western culture preach their gospel to you on this matter.
Father, i receive grace to discipline my child(ren) appropriately in Jesus name.