The world is a violent place; always has been. But it seems that violence is becoming more senseless, more invasive and increasingly tragic.

The Bible is God’s book — the very words of God written by men as his spirit directed them, and who were used by God to declare his truth. The Bible is filled with cause and effect. It is not “time and chance happens to all;” it is the overruling hand of God.

In the Old Testament book of Proverbs 23:13-14, we read, “Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod, he will not die. You shall beat him with a rod, and deliver his soul from hell.” Sound violent? It is in a sense, but it is purposeful “force” rightly administered to mold character, shape behavior and instill values. It is God’s way.

Sadly, many reject God’s truth as irrelevant and illogical and reap the consequences of going their own way. A generation is upon us that was “spared the rod” and, subsequently, grew up in a permissive environment with no boundaries.

Social engineering will not correct the problem. The Gospel has the power to reach into the darkest heart. Two things we must do: (1) Share the gospel with all. It is the hope, and (2) return to God’s way in raising children.

Encourage rightly administered “force” to build good citizens.