“Spare the rod and spoil the child.” We have all heard this advice. Actually, the instruction comes from God. We are born dependent and, in our early years, we remain dependent. Even in our growing years we are dependent on God to show us our path, to give us encouragement when we lose our way, and give us hope when we lose all confidence. Without hope, what kind of life can we possibly have. God will not spare “the rod” when it comes to teaching us. Why, if God is love? It’s EXACTLY because He loves us that He disciplines us. It allows Him to reset our lives, our priorities. What should we do with that hope? We need to pass it on!