The meaning of this is more easily understood when we see that it is rendered “nurture” (Eph. 6:4), and “instruction” (2 Tim. 3:16, and elsewhere). It does not convey the idea of punishment so much as the Father’s dealings with His children (generally by means of sorrow and trial), in order to produce the fruits of righteousness, and make them partakers of His holiness. It is preventive, not vindictive, and is a special proof of our Father’s love, and of our relationship (Heb. 12).