[228 words]
It is a great point of prudence in a father not to provoke his children to wrath (Colossians 3:21). How may fathers provoke their children to wrath?
1. By using abusive terms. Saul called Jonathan a “son of the perverse, rebellious woman” (1 Samuel 20:30). Some parents use imprecations and curses to their children. Would you have God bless your children, and do you curse them?
2. By striking them without a cause or when the correction exceeds the fault. Saul cast a javelin at his son to smite him, and his son was provoked to “fierce anger” (1 Samuel 20:33–34). This is to be a tyrant rather than a father.
3. Showing partiality between siblings. Though a parent may have a greater love for one child, discretion should lead him not to show it. Jacob favored Joseph, which provoked envy (Genesis 37:3–4).
4. Setting an embarrassing example. As the child should honor his father, so the father should not dishonor the child.
5. Laying commands upon them that they cannot perform without wronging their consciences. Saul commanded Jonathan to bring David to him so he could kill him (1 Samuel 20:31). Jonathan could not do this with a good conscience, but he was provoked to anger (20:34).
Parents should show prudence lest the children be discouraged (Colossians 3:21).
Thomas Watson
1620–1686