I have seen your ad recently and felt constrained to write, because my spirit was troubled, to the point of my heart pounding in my chest. I have studied the Bible my entire life and have dedicated myself to the Lord Jesus Christ. I love Him and strive to live by His teachings. To mankind He is “The Good Shepherd” (John 10:11) and we are His sheep. A good shepherd uses a rod or a staff to guide or to protect the sheep in his care. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalms 23) He would never beat his sheep because they would become frightened, scattered and lost.

In Matthew 18:3 we are counseled to become as little children and in Matthew 18:6 not to offend one of these little ones. I believe that beating falls into the category of offending. I know that the beating or physical chastening that I received as a child offended my tender spirit so deeply that I have struggled for years to recover. I never found the love of Jesus in those hurtful episodes; only fear, pain, and resentment, in spite of the fact that my parents were Christians and loved me dearly. Somehow, having a stinging, throbbing bottom and being afraid of my parents didn’t fit with the things I read about my Redeemer in the Bible. I have spoken to many others who feel the same.

I just want you to know I am praying that you will carefully study the loving words of your Savior, Jesus Christ and that your heart will be softened. I pray you will find it in your heart to stop encouraging people to hit their children. God has guided me to find gentle ways to raise my own seven children and we share a loving relationship. They know I will not hit them, but will lead, guide, and teach them God’s way with kindness, patience and long suffering. This gives them a trust in me that they would not otherwise have. Please bow down before God and ask Him if my letter is worthy of considering. The future of His “little ones” depends upon it.

Your Sister in Christ,