The term "rod," as used by Solomon in speaking of the training of children, is a comprehensive one, embracing all methods designed to correct and restrain. It is a grave error to suppose that Solomon advocated continual beating of children; but that he did advocate the judicious use of the literal rod is true, and he thereby showed his wisdom. The child who is chastened "betimes" will not need to be continually corrected. There is such a thing as a child getting in the habit of obeying, and this is the end to be sought in all training of children. When this sort of government is maintained in the home the child never appears in the police court. The parents of such children will experience the truth of the proverb: "Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul." But parents who allow their children to "come up," and to govern themselves, too soon learn that "a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame."