To many young people, a misunderstanding of Hebrews 12:10 might sound true—namely, that parents seem to exercise discipline merely “after their own pleasure” (kjv), as if their only purpose is to entertain themselves and make their children’s lives miserable. The verse does not mean that, of course; but further, young people may be surprised at God’s stern warnings to parents.

In the case of Eli, his sons were already adults. They acted as priests, yet they did not know the Lord, and their behavior was despicable. They stole from the people’s offerings; they openly lived in immorality; and they caused the people of Israel to despise everything associated with the worship of Jehovah (1 Sam. 2:12–17, 22). Eli knew all this, and he scolded his sons; but in truth it seems he had a long history of letting them do whatever they wanted. God rebuked Eli, saying, “Why do you kick at My sacrifice … and honor your sons more than Me?” (1 Sam. 2:29). Years later, Samuel’s family took a similar path. His sons became greedy, took bribes, and were so unrighteous that the whole nation knew it (1 Sam. 8:3–5).

Young people, God holds parents to a very high standard! If they allow you to go your own way, He counts it as a personal dishonor against Himself. Your parents are certainly not perfect, and at times you might even be right to disagree with them—but this must still be done with respect, not defiance. The Lord Jesus at the age of twelve could disagree with His mother in a way that still showed submission (Lk. 2:48–51). In all family situations, Christian parents are taught by God that prompt discipline is the divine way to provide their children with love, hope, and protection from sin (Prov. 13:24; 19:18; 22:15; 23:13).